Non-motorised bike track at Maes Loonskie Cwm Nant Y Meichiaid, Llanfyllin

“Application Number: 25/0867/FUL Grid Ref: E: 313562 N: 316766 Community Council: Meifod Community Valid Date: 30.06.2025”

“Proposal: Creation of a non-motorised bike track, siting of two containers, construction of new access and associated works (part-retrospective)”

“The site lies to the west of Cwm Nant-y-Meichiaid, accessed via an unclassified road that connects the settlement to Pontrobert to the south-west, Meifod to the south-east, and Llanfyllin to the north-east. The site is a steeply-sloping field with some large mature trees and a stream running along the western edge, from north to south. The site is enclosed by mature tree cover and areas of managed plantation.”

“The application seeks retrospective permission for the retention of and alteration to works carried out on agricultural land to create a mountain bike track for personal use by the applicant. Two containers have also been sited and it is proposed to alter the existing means of access off the public highway. The works carried out include engineering operations to create tracks, jumps and landings.”

“- Affect local ecology. There has been a noticeable effect on the bird and bat population locally with reduction in numbers over the last 2-3 years. Impact on bats using nearby buildings of concern. No ecological surveys carried out before works were carried out. - Increase of pollution. Works carried in proximity to stream. - General dislike of proposal - Close to adjoining properties. - Loss of privacy. - Noise nuisance.”

“- Stated to be a private venture but advertising at the site indicates a commercial venture. The site is used to film activities which generates income from social media etc. The applicants have a registered business from the site and promote commercial businesses. If permission is granted there should be strict controls to prohibit commercial use and public events. - Concerns over retrospective nature of the application.”

“Whilst additional information has been submitted to seek to address the concerns raised during the processing of the application, it is considered that the impact upon the setting of the group of listed buildings at Plas Nant y Meichiaid cannot be adequately mitigated. Furthermore, the Landscape and Visual Appraisal does not provide sufficient information to demonstrate that the impact upon the character and appearance of the area is acceptable.”

“The development harms the setting of listed buildings Plas Nant-y-Meichiaid (Cadw ID 7660), Granary and Gig House at Plas Nant-y-Meichiaid (Cadw ID 15979), Cowhouse at Plas Nant-y-Meichiaid (Cadw ID 15980), and Barn at Plas Nant-y-Meichiaid (Cadw ID 15978).”

“It was moved and duly seconded to refuse the application as recommended by the Officer.”

“RESOLVED: Reason for decision: To refuse the application.”