Up to 10 new jobs will be created in Ystradgynlais, as plans to convert a factory into a day care centre are given the green light by county planners.

In April, Gavin Singleton of Swansea-based Shine Cymru Life Skills Services, lodged a planning application with Powys County Council to change the use of unit 12 on the Woodlands Business Park into a day centre.

The factory has an area of just under 500 square metres.

Mr Singleton said: “The proposal seeks a change of use to a day care centre for young adults with additional needs, providing a supportive environment to develop essential life and social skills.

“The centre will offer structured activities such as cooking, budgeting, communication skills, and social interaction to promote independence and community integration.

“The facility will be designed to meet accessibility and safeguarding requirements, with appropriate staffing ratios and necessary modifications where required.

“The proposal aligns with local social care policies, addressing a recognised need for specialist support services in the area.”

In his application, Mr Singleton stated that “five full-time and five part-time” jobs would be created by the proposal and that the company have the equivalent of 40 full-time employees.

Planning officer Luke Woosnam said: “Ancillary uses such as day nurseries and training centres are permitted.

“It has been confirmed by the applicant that people of all ages will be welcomed to this facility if granted permission.

“Officers consider that given nurseries are allowed, the same should be given to this proposed use.

“The proposal also suggests that this new use could eventually provide a significant employment boost to a unit which has been empty for a considerable period.”

Mr Woosnam added that the site is inside a former coal mining area and that the Coal Authority had been asked to comment on the application.

Mr Woosnam said: “At the time of writing this report, the authority have not provided any objections.

“The proposed development does comply with relevant planning policy – the decision is one of conditional consent.”

Shine Cymru said on Facebook: “We’re thrilled to announce our new life skills centre in Ystradgynlais is on its way.

“This new site means more young adults with learning difficulties and/or disabilities can access the same supportive services Shine Cymru is known for.

“For our existing users and families, Ystradgynlais will also act as a hub for exciting new activities like horticulture, forestry, bushcraft, and outdoor life skills - giving everyone greater choice, variety, and space to grow.”