The Friends of the Montgomery Canal have submitted their considerations to Powys County Council regarding a planning application for the construction of new commercial premises at The Moors, Buttington, Welshpool, Powys, SY21 9JR
In principle, we have no objection to the development of land between Buttington Cross and the Moors Farm and would support sympathetic developments which enhance the growth of visitor numbers to the canal.
The plans (Planning Application 20/0658/OUT) include A1, A3 & C1 units with new access road and associated parking (1500 Square foot unit / Drive Thru Coffee shop / 63 bed hotel).
The proposed hotel is the largest construction on the site and at 13 metres high, in our view would adversely affect the visual aspect of the canal which is recognised for its rural nature.
There is concern that the application does not consider either the heritage or ecology of the area and there is no focus on the Montgomery canal which borders the site. Further, the canal corridor is an SSSI and SAC and a designated site for the protection of Leronium natans (floating water plantain), neither of which have been highlighted in the application. There may also be bats residing in the kilns and this would require a survey to be carried out.
However, one of our main concerns is the Lime Kilns which are a Grade II listed structure. During construction there would be heavy equipment passing close to the kilns which may further damage a delicate site. Parking for the kilns and for the adjoining picnic area by the canal would be lost and we have requested assurances of the retention of access to the kilns, canal and of alternative parking arrangements
As the application progresses, we will update the website accordingly.
UPDATE: 31/07/20 – We note that the application has been withdrawn.
