SINGER Charlotte Church has splashed out £1.5m to buy the historic former home of fashion icon Laura Ashley.

The classical singer has had an offer accepted on the 500-year-old mansion in Mid Wales - and is believed to be looking at turning it into an eco-hotel.

The seven-bedroom property, known as Rhydoldog House, just outside Rhayader, is set amongst stunning 49 acre grounds and was sold by the Ashley family after 36 years of ownership in 2009.

It has since undergone substantial refurbishment and Church, 35, is understood to be looking to develop it further with plans for a ‘boutique hotel’ with outdoor “eco-pods.”

The former child star, who has sold ten million albums worldwide, has commissioned legal searches on the Elan Valley property, with the property listed as sold subject to contract.

Her application through the HM Land Registry shows she ordered a search of the property ‘in respect of an intended purchase.’

Estate agents McCartneys confirmed the status of the transaction but a spokesperson said they could not give any details on the potential purchasers.

But Rhayader Town Council said they have been so inundated with enquiries about the possibility of Church’s arrival that they issued a public statement.

A spokesperson said: “Rhayader Town Council have received numerous calls to confirm whether Charlotte Church has acquired Rhydoldog Farm, one of the fantastic properties situated within our constituency.

“We are unable to confirm this, but if it is true, we can only welcome Charlotte and her family to Rhayader and Cwmdauddwr. She will be welcomed with open arms into our fantastic community, as are others who move to this exceptional part of the world.”

Laura Ashely lived in the home with her husband Sir Bernard for 12 years until she died in 1985.

The estate agents said: “In 1973 Rhydoldog was purchased by Bernard and Laura Ashley.

“They had established their company “Laura Ashley” in Mid Wales, and were looking for an idyllic location to raise their family.

“During the seventies and eighties the house was not only a family home, but was also frequently used for the promotion of Laura Ashley and its products.

“Since its sale by the Ashley family in 2009 Rhydolodog has undergone extensive renovation by the current vendors.”

Rhydoldog House was used as the backdrop for the fashion brand’s iconic photo shoots of clothing ranges.

The surrounding grounds were even said to have inspired the designer’s famed floral prints that continue to this day.

Mother-of-three Charlotte, married to music producer Jonathan Powell, is understood to have been attracted by the extensive grounds on the property.

The estate agent added: “Wildflower and 10,000 bluebell walks and an expanse of four colours of rhododendrons with entwining paths through the woodland garden lead to the spectacular rock outcrops, waterfalls and hidden spaces.

“The 33 acres of woodland is home to owls, kites and falcons and extends to the sky line to the common land beyond, ideal for out riding or walking enthusiasts.”