PLANS to bring a corporate team-building retreat to the Powys countryside have been withdrawn by the applicants.

In June, plans by Straightforward Properties Ltd to convert and extend Rhyd y Carw Mill and Barns in Trefeglwys, near Llanidloes, to turn it into a corporate retreat were lodged.

But the proposals have now been withdrawn – the second time plans to convert the property have been pulled, after a similar move last October.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) had highlighted flooding concerns as a problem with the application, with planning development advisor Cinzia Sertorio saying: “We made comments to a similar proposal  back in October 2020.

“Our concerns with regards to flood risk continue to apply to this newly proposed development.

“From an initial review of the application, it is evident that the planning application proposes highly vulnerable development, accommodation for holiday let."

In documents lodged with the application, agent Frederick Carter explained that the scheme was for a corporate events development attracting visitors from firms in the city to experience "a range of activities to improve team building, productivity and wellbeing".

He added: “It is anticipated that the site will provide employment and support local businesses and tourism to the surrounding area."

According to Mr Carter the plan for the second barn was to use it as accommodation for the site where visitors would stay while on a course there.

Mr Carter said: “The extension to the barn is greater than 50 per cent however this is to achieve the accommodation needed for the business to function.

“The new events development has been designed to mimic a traditional barn in its form and scale with modern low level glazed entrance to reflect its purpose.”

Due to archaeological concerns about a nearby Roman road, the bedroom block had been moved to the side of the barn.