Plans to demolish a 140-year-old building near one of Newtown's busiest roads has been met with local anger.

A notice has been placed on Croesawdy in New Road for the intention to demolish the residential building on October 10.

Applicant Harry Bowen, who was given consent to build six terraced houses and 32 flats on the former Travis Perkins site behind Croesawdy, has informed Powys County Council of his intention.

Planning officers have until Thursday, August 25, to decide whether to take the application to "prior approval" or not.

The buildings that are planned to be demolished include all properties, outbuildings, perimeter walls, fencing and any vegetation including all gardens, shrubbery and trees which are within the boundary of Croesawdy.

Local historian Gill Bridgwater has been leading a campaign to raise awareness of the plans so that people can have their say. She said Newtown will be "losing part of its heritage" if Croesawdy is demolished.

"I'm not against the progression of Newtown, we have to run with the 21st Century, but this is mind boggling," Gill said.

"The outcry from the local residents is staggering, and they are completely shocked and saddened by this news about this iconic 140-year-old Victorian residence."

In response to concerns raised by Ms Bridgwater, Montgomeryshire MS Russell George said it is "important any objections are made to the local authority in writing as soon as the application is validated"

He said: "I think there are limitations on what can be done, the building is not listed, and the owner of a property can clearly make alterations or demolition a property. There will also be support for new homes in Newtown also. There could also be unintended consequences, for example the building is not demolished, and then come to look untidy; I've seen this happen on other building over the years."

Campaigners are now calling on county councillor Joy Jones to call the application in to be determined by the planning committee.

Cllr Jones said: "The site is to be redeveloped and I am informed the house is uneconomical to the redevelopment.

"I did ask if the front part of the building could be saved but I have been told it's not possible.

"This is a really lovely looking property and has history in our town so this news is very upsetting and feels wrong but it's privately owned and the owner is entitled to make changes if they're agreed under planning regulations and the law."

A public meeting is expected to take place next week to share concerns about the proposed demolition.