PLANS to build a crematorium near Caersws have been formally submitted to Powys County Council.

Powys Crematorium Limited intends to build a new crematorium at a 13.66-hectare site at Ael Y Bryn between Caersws and Aberhafesp.

The nearest crematoria are at Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury, which are both about 40 miles from the site.

The plans include providing a green burial site as well as create a garden of remembrance, new and improved access arrangements, and a car park.

Powys County Councillor for Dolforwyn, Cllr Gareth Pugh (Conservative), is registered as the only company director for Powys Crematorium Limited on the Companies House website.

County Times: Powys County Councillor Gareth Pugh who represents Dolforwyn - which includes the village of Abermule Powys County Councillor Gareth Pugh who represents Dolforwyn - which includes the village of Abermule

Cllr Pugh is a member of the PCC Planning committee and a spokesman has said that he will be taking “no part” or commenting on the process.

Due to his involvement it is expected that the PCC’s Planning committee would decide the fate of the application.

A month-long pre-application consultation was held up to December 4, 2020, which received a mixed response according to a pre-application report by agent Alan Southerby.

Mr Southerby, said: “The applicant accepts that a new crematorium facility is likely to be a matter that will engender an element of public objection, and is pleased to have received feedback on its proposals.

“It is encouraging that there is a recognition that such a facility is required, even if those who have voiced their concerns believe it is in the wrong location.

“The applicant has taken the time to deal with and answer many of the issues raised in correspondence directly with those who raised concerns.

“Fundamentally, the applicant considers that there is a sound case for promoting the scheme.”

Mr Southerby added: “Following the pre-application consultation process, the application proposals remain essentially unchanged given that no overriding or fundamental objections were received to either the design or layout of the proposed development.”