Machynlleth town councillors have raised concerns about parking and noise in relation to a plan to convert a derelict chapel into a community arts centre.

Local group SPACE wants to convert the disused Capel y Graig into a new arts facility.

But town councillors have said they have concerns about the proposal, due to issues including parking and possible noise problems, and warned that the building’s use as an arts centre could even breach restrictions put in place as part of a covenant when the old chapel was sold.

A planning application for renovation work to convert Capel y Graig into a SPACE facility is currently with Powys County Council’s planning department.

Mary Gilbert from SPACE said the proposal is not intended to compete with existing venues in the town.

The town council was asked for observations on the application.

Cllr Ann MacGarry said she thought the new facility would be in competition with other venues in the town.

While that could not be put forward as an issue in response to the planning application, Cllr MacGarry said she also had concerns over parking at the site.

She said: “They have no plan for parking other than two bookable disabled spaces, which are on the path.”

Town council clerk Jim Griffiths said it was not legal to offer disabled parking spaces which would need to be booked, and said there were also concerns over vehicles currently parking at the site and if noise levels could disturb neighbours.

Mr Griffiths also said he was aware that there had been restrictions on what the building could be used for when it was sold and questioned if the application would fall foul of those restrictions.

Councillors agreed to object to the application on those grounds and mention the covenant restrictions.­