OPPONENTS of plans to build a tourist complex at a former golf course, are “angry, disappointed and devastated,” with the decision to approve it.

Earlier this month, Powys planners gave planning permission for 100 static caravans, five chalets and an amenity building at the the former Mid Wales Golf Centre between Caersws and Llandinam.

A swimming pool, indoor fitness studio, spa and cafe are included in the plans.

Cathy Knapp, Moat Lane Objection Group, said: “We well understand that the past weeks have been difficult for everyone.

“However, we are very, very angry, disappointed, devastated.

“Officials and councillors have received  hundreds of letters, phone calls, and a petition with comments by over 400 people.”

Ms Knapp said that Powys County Council had been invited to seee the site and discuss with locals what they believed were “very good reasons” for opposing to the applciaction.

She added: “Because this application was so contentious, several were personally assured at the beginning of March it would have to be decided by committee and we would be able to represent our case.

“We have lost our belief in democracy, the integrity of the council and its officers.”

Councillor Elwyn Vaughan (Glantwymyn, Plaid Cymru) who sits on the planning committee has asked for a review to be carried out into the changes to the constitution that were made in January.

This gave more decision making powers to Powys Council staff and has allowed more planning applications to be passed using delegated powers.

Cllr Vaughan said: “I think it’s highly unfortunate that this application has been passed in this manner, when the local residents have been clearly told they would be given the opportunity to participate in the process.

“Whatever the result would have been at the planning committee, it is imperative that the public have faith in the process.”

At the moment the only cases being heard by a planning committee are:

Major applications made by Powys Council or affecting its property

Applications submitted by a councillor or staff

Departures from the development plan

Applications referred to the committee by a senior planning officer

In March , due to the coronavirus pandemic, the call-in procedure which allows councillors to put contentious application in front of the planning committee was suspended for six months.

Planning committee chairman, Councillor Karl Lewis (Llandinam – Conservative) said that the application had been in the planning system for 19 months.

Cllr Lewis said: “I need to be sure that members have the same confidence to determine applications as they do in the chamber.”

“If they are, I will lift the call in restrictions at the next meeting.”

A spokesman for Powys County Council said: “There is no right of appeal under existing planning regulations.

“However the decision notice includes advice on judicial review process if residents consider the council’s decision making process was not correctly followed.”