CAMPAIGNERS hoping to save Builth Wells Cottage Hospital from demolition look to have lost their fight.

The Builth Wells Heritage Society had wanted to see the original 1896 hospital building retained as part of a proposed housing development.

But Wales & West Housing Association, which is negotiations to purchase the site from the NHS, has said retaining the building or its facade would make its plans to develop affordable housing 'financially unviable'.

It says it hopes to salvage part of the building to create an on-site feature and commemorative plaque and will draw up plans with Powys County Council's planning department, Builth Wells Town Council and the heritage society before submitting its proposals. It will also consult the wider community.

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