Concerns have been raised that Welsh only place names for new developments may be difficult for refugees coming to live in Newtown.

Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council has welcomed suggestions from Powys County Council to name the former Travis Perkins yard Millers Place as Plas Melinydd.

The new development between St David's Church and Croesawdy in New Road is expected to have 32 affordable apartments within a four-storey block once completed.

Councillors had suggested that the new energy efficient housing which is part funded by the Welsh Government should have a Welsh-only name.

County Times: Jackie Molloy Davies (South ward, Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council)Jackie Molloy Davies (South ward, Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council)

Cllr Jackie Molloy-Davies. 

However, Councillor Jackie Molloy Davies, who supported the Welsh-only name for the former Travis Perkins site, raised concerns that English was being "eradicated" from place names.

"I’ve got no problems at all because I went to a Welsh school myself but what I am concerned is we are having a lot of refugees coming here and they’re just learning English and I feel for them that the pronunciation of Welsh can be difficult. I do like the idea it is actually Plas which is good.

"I am slightly concerned we are eradicating English out of the name places and these people are coming here to learn English before learning Welsh and if they are housed in any of these properties it will be difficult for them. I'm worried about that aspect to be honest with you."

Councillors on the Economy and Environment committee supported a proposal to name the site in New Road as Plas Melinydd at a meeting held on Tuesday evening (January 3).