MACHYNLLETH’S Centre for Alternative Technology is facing 10 charges of breaching food hygiene regulations, including a claim that food was found contaminated with flies.

Representatives of the facility will appear before Llandrindod magistrates today to answer charges of breaching the regulations of the Food Hygiene (Wales) Regulations of 2006.

The charges, which relate to the centre’s main kitchen, include an allegation that a food item found was contaminated with flies and not fit for human consumption.

There are also charges that the premises was not kept clean, that fittings and equipment which come into contact with food were not effectively cleaned, that all fittings or equipment had not been kept in good repair and condition to minimise any risk of contaminating food, that floor surfaces were not maintained and in good condition.

Other charges include claims that washbasins for hand washing were not provided, that raw ingredients were not kept in appropriate conditions, that food was not protected against contamination which could make it unfit for consumption, that there were not in place adequate procedures to control pests, and that there weren’t procedures put in place based on the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point principles under the regulations.

All charges, which are being brought by Powys County Council, relate to 2 September 2016.

Pleas are expected to be lodged at the hearing after an earlier hearing was adjourned.