AN empty store in Aberystwyth town centre should not become an estate agents, town councillors have said.

Aberystwyth Town Council has voted to oppose a development at 4 Queen Street, the former CCW Computers shop on the corner of Chalybeate Street.

The planning application is for a change of use of the ground floor unit from retail to an estate or letting agency, and for the development of the accommodation in the upper floors.

But town councillors, meeting last Monday, before the local elections on Thursday, have opposed the plans, claiming they do not maintain the “traditional” look of the current shop, which lies in the Aberystwyth conservation area.

Some councillors also objected to the plans on the grounds that the unit should only be used for retail purposes because of its location.

Cllr Alun Williams said: “The windows don’t have to be the same but if there is a change it should be to a more traditional, vernacular look.

“This is also an application for a change of use from retail to estate or letting agency. I think that would be a loss to the core retail area of town.

“Chalybeate Street is starting to benefit from the opening of Marks & Spencer and Tesco, with greater footfall making it a more attractive retail development.”

See this week’s Aberystwyth edition for the full story, in shops and online now