The key to the success of the redevelopment of Welshpool’s Smithfield site will be getting the proposed one-way traffic system in the town right, said a town councillor.

Councillor David Senior was among councillors who voiced concerns that the road system changes likely to arise from the planning scheme being put forward by J Ross Developments of Oswestry for the cattle market site must work for the town’s good.

Councillor John Corfield said he wanted to see a link between the developed site and the town’s centre while councillor Ann Holloway said: “We have got to get this right for the future of the town.”

Councillor Senior said: “How we organise the one-way system is the key.”

Their comments followed a presentation by J Ross Developments’ director Spencer Cooper to members before last night’s annual council meeting on the plans, which include a medium-sized supermarket and a canalside restaurant.

A planning application for the site has been submitted to Powys County Council while proposals are going ahead for another livestock market at Buttington Cross.

Mr Cooper said: “We gave you promises regarding the road. We have been asked to do that and we have done it.”

He said the company had been very open with the town council, keeping them informed of their proposals and making changes when requested.

Mr Cooper said a second phase of the development was still “on the drawing board” and not yet ready for a planning application but they would bring the council information as soon as they had matters to discuss.