THE extension of Leighton Arches gypsy and traveller site in Welshpool has been approved.

The application received unanimous support at the meeting of Powys County Council’s Planning Committee on February 22.

Planning officer Louise Evans said: “A need for development has arisen after an assessment Powys were required to undertake.”

The assessment was necessary under Welsh Government guidance.

The extension will include two additional pitches, an amenity building, parking and the relocation of the existing access.

The application came with the condition that a 40mph zone be established on the B4381 from the east side of the bridge, east of the site, to the 30mph zone at Welshpool’s boundary.

The speed limit was deemed necessary due to lowered visibility at the site access.

A risk of flooding was identified but planning officers were satisfied that the risk is low and there would be sufficient time for people to reach safety in case of an incident.

Commenting on the application, councillor Bob Mills said: “This application seems to have covered everything.

“We are sort of obligated to extend the site and make this place right.”

Cllr David Jones added: “I think Cllr Bob Mills got it absolutely right.

“This application does cover everything. The LDP will fail if it doesn’t get planning permission.

“Look how quickly it has got through the system, the initial application was only placed in December.”

There were no objections to the extension of the site and there were no speakers on behalf of the applicant (Powys County Council).