Plans for a major static caravan park on the site of Mid Wales Golf Centre near Caersws have been submitted to Powys County Council.

The scheme is proposed by applicant Trevor Bebb, who successfully applied for a change of use for 20 caravans in May following the closure of the existing nine-hole golf course due to "viability issues".

However a proposed large-scale extension to the scheme could see 100 static caravans, five chalets and a amenity building built on the land in Maesmawr, with a swimming pool, indoor fitness studio and a spa included in the plans, which have drawn criticism from some local residents.

The plan would see the existing golf course and buildings demolished to make way for the new infrastructure, but existing roads and car parking on the site would continue to be used.

A planning statement included as part of the application said: "The Mid Wales Golf Centre, Caersws, is an existing leisure site that benefits from planning permission for the siting of 20 holiday chalets. However due to the declining economic viability of golf courses, an issue that has been experienced throughout the UK, an alternative viable use has been proposed for the remainder of the land at the centre.

"The applicant has significant experience in the leisure and tourism industry and has therefore recently bought the centre with the intention of securing a viable and sustainable future tourism use for the site, enhancing the contribution it makes to the social, economic and environmental well-being of the area.

"The development represents a significant investment in the tourism industry in Powys and will give rise to substantial social and economic benefits," the statement added.

A number of biodiversity schemes are also planned to be included, including the erection of bat and bird boxes, the protection of great crested newt habitats and new scrubland planting.

However the scheme has received a number of responses from local residents concerned at the impact on the local road system as a result of increased traffic to the site.

One response commented: "The road infrastructure was not designed for heavy road use and local traffic alone has increased due to car ownership being a necessity in the area.The lane is in a poor state of repair and the verges are damaged doe to the lane being narrow. Who will underwrite the cost of infrastructure improvement on an ongoing basis?"

Concerns were also raised from various responders to the scheme about environmental impact and the possible light intrusion into a dark skies area.

The deadline for responses has now closed and the plans are currently being considered by Powys County Council's planning department.