Plans for a housing estate at a former factory site on the Mid Wales/Shropshire border could be given the go-ahead – after the developer altered its scheme, which would see affordable homes being built.

The original plan for the former Motorway Remoulds factory site at Silurian Mill, Mill Green Lane, Knighton, was for 54 units, including eight flats in a converted mill building, and 46 new homes.

But developer Mainstone Properties, of Bishop’s Castle, has withdrawn this scheme in favour of a new version which would see 36 dwellings built and the mill building demolished.

Under these plans, 33 per cent of the new homes would be affordable housing.

The application has been recommended for approval when it goes before Powys County Council’s Radnorshire planning sub-committee on Wednesday.

In a report to councillors, Gareth Thomas, the council’s head of planning services, said: “Change of use to residential would remove the use for general industry which, with its associated noise, pollution and heavy goods vehicle traffic, does not sit well alongside existing residential properties.

“Parts of the site are subject to flood risk but, subject to appropriate emergency procedures being in place, the Environment Agency has no objection to the proposal.”

The report added: “In the light of all the advantages depending on the development proceeding, it is the planning officer’s view that the balance is weighted towards approval.”