Wales breaking news plus traffic, weather and travel updates (Saturday, January 1)

Officials object to Charlotte Church’s plans to open eco-friendly wellness retreat in Welsh countryside

Charlotte Church’s dreams to open an eco-friendly wellness retreat in the Welsh countryside hangs in the balance after officials objected to the plans.

The Voice of an Angel star spent £1.5 million on the former home of fashion designer Laura Ashley in the Elan Valley, Powys.

The 35-year-old plans on transforming Rhydoldog House into a carbon-neutral wellbeing and healing retreat, including four log cabins on the grounds as tourist accommodation.

Agents on behalf of Ms Church have submitted a planning application to Powys County Council for approval.

But highways officials have objected to the application due to concerns about the suitability of access to the retreat from a narrow country lane, the C1219, the Press Association reported.

They said the locations of proposed additional vehicle passing places were unsuitable and also questioned the estimated extra, daily traffic volume.

“The transport statement includes a plan showing the perceived existing and proposed additional passing places along the C1219,” a highways official wrote.

Read the full story here

https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/wales-breaking-news-plus-traffic-22619850

Recommended For You