One of mid Wales’ best-known businesses has been given the go-ahead to expand in a move which could create dozens of new jobs in the area.

Hafren Furnishers, which has been trading in Llanidloes for more than 55 years, has had its planning application to convert a former printing business into a furniture store with storage approved subject to conditions by Ceredigion Council.

Wales’ largest furniture store prides itself as one of the leading independent retailers in the industry. It now plans to grow the business in Ceredigion by opening a new store at the former Cambrian Printers building in Llanbadarn Fynydd near Aberystwyth.

Around 30 jobs are expected to be created through the new development.

Hafren Furnishers said in a planning statement that the proposal represented a fresh chapter in the site’s history after former occupants Cambrian Printers left the building last year.

“The company has searched for over 10 years for a suitable location and consider the former Cambrian Printers site to be the perfect location at which to expand the business. The premises would offer choice and value for customers in the local area and beyond, as the company boasts long-established relationships with customers across the country.

“The business philosophy is a simple one, Hafren Furnishers display the widest choice of contemporary and traditional at the most competitive prices. By choosing to expand the business in Llanbadarn, Hafren Furnishers would ensure local employment whilst also ensuring a positive occupation of a prominent road-side premises.

“Hafren Furnishers’ interest in the site presents an opportunity to inject new life into the Llanbadarn area, bringing the prospect of employment to the immediate area while avoiding the potential risk of decay and dereliction at a prominent location.

“It is anticipated that proposals will result in approximately 30 jobs."

A separate planning application will be submitted to replace the existing Cambrian Printers signage on the front of the building with Hafren Furnishers signage in the same location.

Hafren Furnishers has been contacted for comment.