Converting part of a building in Brecon could help train more student doctors in Powys, if plans get the go-ahead.

Dr James King of Brecon Medical Practice has lodged a planning application with Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority (BBNPA) planners to convert the first floor of the Tannery Building, which is part of the Tŷ Henry Vaughan complex.

The conversion would see four bedsits and an associated communal area set up for medical students.

The site is currently vacant, but it had been occupied by a dental practice.

Documents lodged with the application by agent Richard Loft explain the proposal.

Mr Loft said: “The purpose of the proposed development of the first-floor area in the Tannery Building is to meet a current unmet need to provide medical student accommodation.

“We have a regular commitment to medical education and training.

“We help provide clinicians of the future to work in Wales and the local area.

“As Brecon is an area popular with tourists, we have been limited in our student recruitment numbers by the high cost of short-term rentals or accommodation suitable for students to live in during their placements.

“One of the issues raised in student feedback has been their ability to study in a private, affordable and quiet environment.

“A purpose-built accommodation area with study facilities and en-suites will allow this need to be met.

“As a result, once the project is complete, we could attract additional students for more frequent and longer-term placements than we are currently able to.

“This will help us to provide future doctors in the area, where there is a need and current difficulty with recruitment and retention given its rural location.

“This will help us as a practice remain sustainable and serve the growing local and ageing population for years to come.”

The consultation process on the proposal will run until November 25.