Plans for two adjoined static caravans in Knighton, have not been supported by the town council.

David Luther of Old Brook Farm, Knighton wants to form the residential unit, create an access, install a septic tank and carry out other associated work at the address.

In his planning application he said his aim is to initiate a ‘Market Garden’ to supply the local community with fresh fruit and vegetables once established.

He said the two caravans would give a total floor space of 80 square metres and there would be shiplap timber cladding around the static caravans to soften appearance and offer a more rustic, natural look.

He said all users including the young, old, disabled etc. will be able to access the proposed development site easily and safely.

Mr Luther said the plot of land is 1.9 acres between the A488 Frydd Road and Penybont Road and it is currently pasture land or woodland, but it is not in use. 

He said it has a pre-existing building on site with metered electrical supply and it peviously housed a caravan but it was removed or destroyed due to age or being beyond repair and it was likely last used in late 1980's.

The land was purchased from a previous owner who inherited the land due to a death in the family.

Knighton Town Council considered the plans at a recent meeting and they objected to it for various reasons.

They said the application, section "Existing use" says the site is vacant, but the applicant has already installed two caravans, in the section "description of proposal – Has the work or change of use started?" The applicant said no, but has already installed a caravan.

They said the applicant says there are no trees or hedges on the site but hedges have already been cut down, and there are mature trees on site. 

The applicant claims the area is not at risk of flooding, but they provided photos to show this is not the case.

The town council added: “The applicant claimed to have consulted the neighbourhood, however, no residents of Mill Road have been consulted, and Knighton Town Council have received a signed letter of complaint from local residents. The first thing they knew about it was when the hedges were cut down, and a caravan appeared on the site. 

“The residents of Mill Road are also unhappy with the fact that the applicant has stated he is going to use UPVC windows and doors. As this is a conservation area when residents want to do any changes to their properties it has to be in keeping with the local surroundings.

“It is also not clear whether a conservation/biodiversity survey has been completed on

the site. See the attached photo of an otter, which was taken on 25/11/2024.

“The applicant said no to whether he will use the site for commercial activities. However he has also stated that he will provide fruit and vegetables for Knighton.”

They claim access to the site has poor visibility, and is too close to Mill Road Junction.

The council concluded; “For these reasons, we would argue the application is not accurate, and that it has serious issues which need to be considered by Planning Services before agreement. It also appears that the applicant has not waited for planning permission before beginning the planned work, which may require investigation.”

Councillor Tina Sharp proposed objecting to the application and it was seconded by Councillor Andrew Craggs. Members unanimously approved objection of the plan.

Powys County Council will make the final decision on the matter by January 9