Plans for nine business units on a farm near Crickhowell have been lodged with Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority planners.

The proposal by John Howell is for a site at Wern Farm on Llanbedr Road, around half a mile to the north-east of Crickhowell.

Mr Howell wants to build a “B8 storage building” that would provide nine business units for letting and would be located behind the existing farmyard.

It would not be positioned as a “free-standing structure in open countryside” and is supposed to be seen “in association” with the farm.

A “B8” building is a planning use class that covers storage facilities, including warehouses and distribution centres.

Planning agent Samuel Organ, of CO2 Architects, explained the proposal in a planning statement.

Mr Organ said: “The proposal seeks consent for the erection of a new B8 storage building comprising nine individual lettable storage units.

“The scheme is intended to provide a modest farm diversification use to assist the financial resilience of the holding while maintaining the existing agricultural function of the farm.

“Each bay would be accessed by a roller shutter door, providing secure enclosed storage space.

“The building is set alongside the existing track, with a hardcore turning area to allow vehicles to manoeuvre within the site.”

He added that solar panels could be put on the roof of the building.

Mr Organ said: “Approximately 276 square metres of self-seeded grass would be removed to facilitate the building and associated works.

“The proposed B8 storage use is generally quiet and low impact.

“The roller shutter doors will provide secure enclosed storage, reducing the likelihood of external clutter or unmanaged storage.

“The building is separated from nearby residential property by the farm complex, existing access arrangements and intervening landscape features.

“The proposal is therefore not expected to cause unacceptable noise, privacy, lighting or disturbance impacts.

“Any lighting required for safety and security can be controlled to avoid light spill and to protect the rural character of the area.”

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Consultation on the proposal is set to continue until May 28, and a decision is expected by July 1.