An investigation has been launched by Powys County Council over reports of unauthorised works on a hillside that residents fear will “destroy” their homes.

The council is looking into whether a large-scale earth moving development on a steep hillside near Llanfyllin is permitted after receiving calls from residents to take “urgent” action.

Neighbours to the site, near Dolydd, have expressed concern over the scale of the works and “soil slippage” to both the town and county councils, leading to the local authority launching an investigation into whether formal enforcement is needed over the situation.

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Dolydd residents Mr and Mrs Lewis said. “We were initially informed by Powys Council that no action would be taken. However, on seeing the scale of the work happening, the lack of transparency and the stress and strain it was creating, we asked for assistance to put pressure on Powys to take action.”

“There are real concerns about soil slippage from the site and responsibility must be taken to resolve the situation. This cannot be allowed to destroy our homes.”

A spokesperson for Powys County Council confirmed that they had received a report of unauthorised works and that the local authority is currently investigating "whether the works undertaken are permitted development or whether formal enforcement action is appropriate".

The spokesperson added: “The council has also reported the works to Natural Resources Wales and the Powys Sustainable Drainage Approval Board for investigation because additional consents may be required.”

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Prior to Powys Council’s confirmation of their investigation, Mr and Mrs Lewis approached Plaid Cymru councillor and campaigner Cllr Elwyn Vaughan for assistance.

Regarding the issue, Cllr Vaughan said: “There are many neighbours deeply concerned about the huge scale of the earthmoving at this site without any discussion with them, without basic courtesy or respect.

"It has not only a visual impact with deep scars into the hillside but also concerns about hundreds of tonnes of loose soil and rock behind their houses and the potential effect and danger resulting from heavy rain.

County Times: Wider view of the earth-moving works being carried out in a hillside near Dolydd, Llanfyllin.

“In view of the inability to have a proper discussion with the developer, it is imperative that Powys Council take action and ensure that all proper procedures have taken place.

“They need to look at any potential planning breaches as well as ensure that NRW- [Natural Resources Wales] and SuDS [Sustainable Drainage Systems] requirements regarding water pollution and removal of soil from the site are met and that work on the site is stopped until all those requirements are met.

“It is unfortunate that Powys were slow off the mark initially. I hope that at last they take the essential urgent action.”