A temporary mortuary set up in Llanelwedd during the coronavirus outbreak is not yet operational, despite rumours to the contrary circulating in the local area.

Powys Council is setting up the mortuary, with capacity for more than 700 bodies, in case the coronavirus outbreak dramatically increases in severity in Powys.

It has now been completed, but the council says it has not yet been required.

The number of people to have died from coronavirus in Powys has not been confirmed.

The first port of call for people who have died will still be local undertakers, and the mortuary will only be introduced if the number significantly increases.

“Our sincere hope is that the facility is never needed but we have to plan for every eventuality. Although it is complete it is not open as thankfully it has not yet been required,” said Powys County Council chief executive Dr Caroline Turner.

“I would like to reassure residents that the facility and its operating procedures meet the very stringent standards needed in relation to the care of the deceased. This includes ensuring that body bags are used and that all our staff involved in operating the facility are suitably trained and supplied with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.

“Throughout the process we have been working closely with Powys funeral directors and their knowledge and experience has been extremely helpful in developing the facility. They are experienced, thoughtful, caring people and will play a critical role in how the deceased are safely handled and brought to the site if it opens.

“Our facility is part of the national response to Covid-19, it is funded by the Welsh Government and an important part in dealing with a pandemic. It will provide additional capacity for the whole of Powys."