Planning officer needs 'compelling evidence' over new bypass for Newtown
A planning inspector has said he will need "compelling" evidence to justify compulsory purchase orders which could force people out of their homes and businesses to pave the way for a £56 million bypass.
William Wadrup said he has received "substantial" support for the building of a bypass in Newtown, but has also received about 70 objections.
It has previously been claimed that re-routing the bypass through the town's Mochdre Industrial Estate could jeopardise up to 1,000 jobs.
There have been worries that there will be moves to suggest an alternative to the proposed "orange" route – which would take the trunk road directly through the industrial estate. In that instance, compulsory purchase orders could be issued to release the land for the new road.
Mr Wadrup has been installed as planning inspector for the inquiry into the planned bypass, which campaigners have been fighting for for more than 20 years.
During a pre-inquiry hearing in Newtown yesterday, he said he wanted to hear as many views on the bypass as possible.
He said: "I have had substantial written support for the scheme and there are about 70 objectors. I will listen to all sides during the planning inquiry later this summer.
"I need to be convinced there is a compelling case for any compulsory purchase orders for public land.
"It is going to be an interesting inquiry and I want to hear from people in the town ahead of what will be a major project for the future of the area."
The inquiry, which is expected to last up to three weeks, will be held at the Elephant and Castle Hotel in Broad Street, Newtown, starting on June 25.
Local membership organisations the Mid Wales Chamber of Commerce and Mid Wales Manufacturing Group are urging the Welsh Government not to jeopardise jobs and business growth by changing the route of the bypass.
Keith Palmer, chief executive of the Mid Wales Chamber of Commerce, said: "Together with the Mid Wales Manufacturing Group, we represent a large proportion of the businesses located on the Mochdre Industrial Estate who are very concerned about a proposed route change which would adversely affect them.
"When any large-scale development or infrastructure project takes place, the reality is that someone will be negatively impacted upon.
"However, in this instance, 50 businesses who employ more than 1,000 skilled people on the estate are being jeopardised.
"This will have a huge bearing on the economy of the region and isn't acceptable."
