A CARAVAN park owner near Llanidloes is seeking planning permission for a dozen more static caravans.

Caerau Caravan Park at Dolwen near Llanidloes has 50 pitches and they say that there is “significant demand” for more pitches.

But applicant, Norman Price, has been advised to contact Powys County Council’s Countryside Services Department to discuss a public footpath that could affect the scheme.

Mr Price is being represented by agent Gwynfor Humphreys, who has written a Design and Access Statement (DAS) for the application.

Mr Humphreys said: “The development will provide high quality, energy, efficient holiday accommodation.

“The statics will help sustain the local community by virtue of visitors using the local shop and public house facilities.

“The development is of modest scale and well landscaped.

“The extension to the site will be virtually inconspicuous from the valley basin.

“The site enjoys enjoys safe access and he additional tree planting will enhance potential for flora and fauna.”

The DAS adds that the extra pitches will contribute to the financial viability of the caravan site.

Mr Humphreys adds: “The applicant farms the adjoining land – though there is no specific tie linking the site to the farm.

“The caravan site augments the applicant’s income and is a diversification scheme contributing to the local economy.

Mr Humphreys explained that the extra caravans would be placed in an area considered “inconspicuous” and “low impact.”

He also reassured planners that they will be used “strictly for holiday occupancy only,” and not as residential homes.

PCC Countryside Services officer, Martin Davies, said: “The developer is advised that public footpath 138 exists within the planning boundary.

“Care will need to be taken as to the exact positioning of individual units so as to avoid obstructing the public right of way.

“The plans are not detailed enough for us to provide a definitive response and the applicant, or their agent, is advised to contact Countryside Services for further advice before any development begins.”

Development over or illegal interference with a public right of way is a criminal offence.