PLANS for five holiday pods on land at the Cann Office, Llangadfan, near Llanfair Caereinion, have been approved by Powys County Council.

The applicants are the owners of the Cann Office, a listed building established in 1310, a hotel, restaurant and pub.

In a planning statement submitted with their successful application that stated that due to “rising uncertainty in pub trade, diversification offers a way of supplementing incomes and improving the economic viability of a business”

The development site includes the area of land to incorporate the pods.

“It is noted that the Cann Office hotel is a listed building, usual practise would be to accompany this application with a Heritage Impact assessment”, the planning statement says.

“However, it is the agents belief that the proposal will be a betterment of this particular site.

“The site currently hosts a white function marquee, it is thought the proposal will be better suited to the site area than its current use.

“The proposal is for excellently crafted pods that will be sited with immaculate landscaping and constant maintenance thus fitting in with the use of the building. “

It adds: “The camping pods will be handcrafted by experienced tradesmen using locally sourced materials with handmade oak joinery.

“Externally the walls are constructed and clad from natural timber. The roof will be felt shingle.

“The site is within the ownership of Mr and Mrs Thomas and can provide an opportunity for the family to gain an additional income.

“Mr and Mrs Thomas realise the need to diversify to improve the sustainability of the business and provide an additional income.

“Rural diversification is of increasing importance to those with an interest in agriculture and rural communities.

“With rising uncertainty in rural businesses, diversification offers a way of supplementing incomes and improving the economic viability of a rural business.

“The proposed development can be sited and developed without detrimental effect on the surrounding landscape and the existing trees.

“There is an existing access and car parking area.

“This proposal has significant merit.”

The application was granted by Powys Council planners last week.