Work on a new Gypsy and Traveller site at Machynlleth began on Monday and should be completed by early January 2021.

The construction is being carried out for Powys County Council (PCC) by the Welshpool-based SWG Group.

The project is due to be discussed by PCC’s Cabinet on Tuesday, September 15, when its members will be asked to approve a transfer of funds.

The council has legal responsibilities and duties to provide suitable accommodation for Gypsy and Traveller families.

The current unofficial site will be made permanent after the council agreed a 50 year lease on land purchased for £10,000 from Machynlleth Golf Club as part of a £1.285m expansion and upgrade plan which will also see Natural Resources Wales sell 2.59 hectares of land south of the A489 road to be used as common land.

It was agreed by planners three years ago, and will provide a permanent base for a family which has lived in Machynlleth for a decade, while ensuring the council receives rent from the site.