LAND behind Machynlleth’s Y Plas could be used for a new cemetery in the town – and Powys County Council chiefs have launched a feasibility study into the site.

It is estimated that the current cemetery in Newtown Road will be full within two years, meaning there is an urgent need for a new site in the town or Machynlleth residents will face having to travel out of the locality.

Following a consultation in November last year, there was strong support from members of the public for a site behind Y Plas to be considered

The county council has been considering both that site and land at the current primary school campus in the town.

Local councillor Michael Williams said he backed the study looking at the site by Y Plas saying it would be a “superb site” for a cemetery.

Cllr James Evans, the Cabinet member for cemeteries, said a feasibility study would now be carried out to see if the county council could meet the wishes of residents.

He said: “The current Victorian cemetery in Machynlleth is nearly at full capacity.

“We asked for the views of local residents, who were clear that they want a cemetery in the town and not elsewhere.

“Residents also liked the idea of land at the back of the Plas being developed as a new cemetery.

“We have taken into account these views and we will start a feasibility study looking at this land."

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