Shopping centre apartment plans supported

Offices above the Bear Lanes shopping centre in Newtown town centre could be turned into apartments.

Town councillors have supported the plans, subject to questions over fire safety.

The planning application has been submitted to Powys County Council by Mr Kaz Dhesi. It is for the "conversion of first and second floor offices into five residential apartments and office to include replacement of two fire escape doors with windows to the rear."

The town council is one of the statutory consultees before county council planning officers and committee make a decision.

Cllr Chris Jones recommended supporting the application, but providing necessary consultation had taken part with fire officials over the fire exits for the apartments.

The committee supported the application.