A HOMEOWNER wants to knock down his house and build five new ones, including one affordable home, on the site

Powys County Council has received an application from Keith Shirley to knock down Woodchurch, on the outskirts of Llanidloes, and build five houses on the plot.

The house is just off the B4569 road on the way out of town towards Trefeglwys.

Mr Shirley’s agent, Richard Lewis of Hughes Architects, explained the proposal in a planning statement.

Mr Lewis, said: “The site is situated opposite the junction of the recent Coed-y-Llan housing development.

“The application is supported by documents which illustrate the site is capable of accommodating up to five dwellings, along with the associated car parking.

“While still indicative at this outline planning stage, our clients preference is for a mix of three or four-bedroom detached dwellings.”

Mr Lewis goes on to explain that the type of affordable home to be built on the plot of land would be discussed with Powys council’s housing department.

It would be determined on housing “need” in the area.

He also explains that the current house at Woodchurch is not considered of “special architectural or historical value” and that it is still used as a family home.

“In conclusion, I would suggest that the proposed development is reasonable and proportionate as it would take place within the settlement area of Llanidloes and reflects the prevailing nature of development in this area,” said Mr Lewis.

The application is accompanied by a preliminary ecological summary by Turnstone Ecology Ltd.

The report looks at the potential ecological impacts of the development and what work could be done to offset any issue.

It looked at whether the development would affect a number of animals including bats, badgers and great crested newts.

The report concluded that up to 30 species could be affected directly or indirectly by the proposal, and “appropriate project design” would be needed to minimise the negative impacts.

Turnstone Ecology Ltd added: “Ecological enhancements are also recommended to ensure the proposals result in a positive ecological gain which is in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework.”

If approved, more detailed plans would need to be agreed before any work starts.