OUTLINE plans for almost a 100 new houses in Llanidloes have been approved but developers must agree a financial contribution to fund work to expand the primary school, as part of the approval.

While the plans for 96 houses and associated works at land adjacent to Dolwenith and Tan y Bryn are outside the settlement development limits for Llanidloes, Powys County Council planning officers have said the need for housing meant the scheme should be approved.

However, a range of conditions have been imposed, including a financial contribution from developers to the council’s education department to make necessary changes at the town’s primary school to meet the needs for any new pupils attending the school as a result of the development.

The education department had asked for a contribution of just over £205,000 under a Section 106 agreement, but that figure was questioned by the developers with planning officers agreeing that further talks should be held.

Planning officer Gemma Bufton said: “A contribution is sought in respect of primary education only as there is sufficient surplus capacity at Llanidloes High School to accommodate any secondary aged pupils as a result of this development.

“The authority has a duty to ensure that there are sufficient school places available for children in the area and this development would put additional pressure on the school. In addition, if a place is not available at the nearest school to the home address, the authority has a duty to offer an alternative place and fund any required transport for up to seven years whilst that child is in the alternative school.

“The schools service therefore wishes to request a Section 106 contribution of £205,634 in respect of this development.”

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