MP says she submitted plans following advice on security

Plans to make changes to a building in  Llandridndod Wells were done following advice from the Houses of Parliament’s security and policing teams an MP has said.

In March 2021, Fay Jones, the MP for Brecon and Radnorshire applied for retrospective planning permission to change  her constituency base at Leamington House on Temple Street from retail to office use.

She also wanted to replace a “rotting wooden door and window frame” with similarly coloured UPVC – which is a form of plastic that is used as a wood substitute.

But the plans were refused by Powys County Council planners earlier this month as having UPVC windows in a conservation area as they were “contrary to relevant planning policy.”

Fay Jones MP said: “The planning application was made after recommendations by Parliament’s security and policing teams.

“Our options are limited as the Parliamentary security team have installed measures designed to protect the safety of those working in MPs’ offices.

“All too sadly the murder of two MPs and attacks upon offices, including here in Powys, in recent times has exemplified the need for secure premises.

“We have received a warm welcome since opening the office and hope that we can continue to make ourselves available to the people of the Llandrindod Wells area.

“Added to which it would be a great shame to see another shop go ‘dark’ in the Town.”

On whether the decision will be appealed Miss Jones said: “Given our commitment to the town, we’ll explore all options before making a final decision”