A COUPLE’S plan to live an “economically and ecologically sustainable” lifestyle in Llanarth has been delayed after confusion over access problems.

Planning officers at Ceredigion County Council had recommended a One Planet Development for one home at Allt Cefn Ffynnon for refusal citing highway and emergency access concerns.

At a development control committee, councillors argued that there were many homes in the area with accesses difficult for emergency vehicles as “it is the countryside.”

There was also confusion over what access roads needed improvement within the site so it was decided that a site visit would provided a better understanding.

A number of councillors wanted to approve Laura Mears and Rob Smith’s proposal to build a small home on their 15-acre woodland, along with a poly-tunnel and shed, which would allow them to live a low-impact, zero-carbon life.

Cllr Lyndon Lloyd said: “We have farms in the middle of nowhere and we need a 4×4 to get there, we are talking about the countryside here.”

The applicants spoke at the meeting and urged members to support them in building a home that would also lead to development of their business.

Mr Smith makes furniture and charcoal along with managing the woodland and supporting young people in the area, including those attending the Pupil Referral Unit.

Miss Mears also wants to stay close to New Quay where she is a member of the life boat crew.

Following a site inspection panel visit the application will be reconsidered.

See this week’s South Ceredigion paper for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now