PLANS for a unique glamping site in a converted grain silo have been praised as something of "great beauty".

The unusual proposals by Michael Atack and Georgina Taylor were approved at a meeting of Powys Council's planning committee on Thursday (September 9).

Three former grain silos near Llanwrtyd Wells would be transformed into tourist accommodation with reception, orangery, tool workshop, and conversion of a barn into facilities for guests.

The application had been “called in” to be decided by the planning committee by local county councillor Tim Van Rees who spoke at the meeting and said that there were objections from neighbours.

Applicant Michael Atack explained that Maesyron “sits alongside” the Epynt Way and is near forest walks, national cycle ways and mountain bike trails.

Mr Atack said: “We aspire to help raise the profile as a tourist destination, our proposal is aimed at people looking to escape to nature to enjoy these substantial benefits.

“We are proposing a small-scale low impact site built from upcycled and natural materials.

“In time we will provide employment opportunities for local people.”

Part of the design that has been questioned is making holiday units out of 5.2 metres high disused grain stores.

Principal planning officer Gemma Bufton who recommended approving the plans said: “It’s a unique proposal, it’s not something we have seen in Powys.”

Cllr David Price said: “On balance I think this is a wonderful application one might say that the design of the silos is subjective.

“As I look around the countryside most farms today have either silos or bins to meet the needs of bulk deliveries.

“As long as we have correct conditions to ensure the landscaping and the finish of those silos is managed appropriately then I think they are something of great beauty.

“We need to welcome tourists to enjoy what we have here, and this is a high-class application.”

Cllr David Selby added: “In another location this is what I would call a brown field site.

“A whole load of unattractive derelict buildings are being re-purposed and brought back to life, in any other location we would celebrate that, and I celebrate it here.”

Councillors voted in favour of the application with 14 votes for, none against and one abstention.