MP for Brecon and Radnorshire Fay Jones has voiced her “deep frustration” with the decision to grant planning permission for a new supermarket in Crickhowell.

Plans to bring a Co-op to Crickhowell have been given the green light by the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority.

The move comes just a few years after the supermarket chain tried to acquire the Corn Exchange in the town – a proposal which was later thwarted when residents came together and purchased the building instead. This community spirit played a major role in the town being awarded Independent High Street of the Year 2018.

Miss Jones who lives only two miles from Crickhowell, has been vocal in her opposition to the plans since they were announced last year, describing the decision as a “kick in the teeth.”

Miss Jones said: “Crickhowell is my home and I am enormously proud of the small, independent retailers who make it a thriving town. The High Street is award-winning and attracts many shoppers from outside our area – for good reason.

“I would ordinarily welcome a new business into the area but it is clear that the site is not suitable for a shop of this scale. It would hugely increase the amount of traffic and cause problems at an already narrow point on the A40 and so I joined a local group of campaigners to oppose the application.

“I am deeply frustrated that the calls of the local community – which are overwhelmingly against this proposal – have been ignored.

“A new supermarket in Crickhowell could jeopardise some small, family-run businesses who have been here for many years. Over the last year, these businesses have bent over backwards to ensure that residents had everything they needed to cope with the lockdown. This decision is a kick in the teeth for them.

“I want to thank all those who put so much effort into campaigning against this. I very much hope it is not the end of the matter.”

A Spokesperson for Brecon Beacons National Park Authority said: “Following the Planning, Access and Rights of Way meeting on Tuesday, May 11, the planning application for change of use of the former Crickhowell Conservative Club to allow use as Class A1 retail use, with ancillary storage at first floor, incorporating alterations to exterior of the building was approved by members.

“This application was considered against the adopted policies of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority Local Development Plan (2013) taking into consideration National Policies within Future Wales – The National Plan 2040 (February 2021), Planning Policy Wales (Edition 11, 2021), Technical Advice Notes of the Development Plan, The Crickhowell Community Plan and the comments made by the consultees and other interested parties.“