Llangattock faces significant challenges from a rapidly ageing population, lack of affordable housing, parking pressures and poor public transport provision. That was the message given to a packed meeting organised by Llangattock Community Council at the start of a year-long community consultation.

Residents are being asked how they want to see their community grow over the next 15 years as part of a Place Plan Consultation. Cllr Tim Jones told the meeting: “It is startling to see that between 2011 and 2021 the proportion of over 65s in our community rose from 25 to 35 per cent. When you start thinking about what that does to Llangattock as the number of elderly people grows and grows, who is going to look after them and whether we can retain our young people … these are big themes to think about.”

Recent ONS figures showed that Llangattock was the most expensive place to buy property in Powys, and an ongoing survey of residents shows a significant number expressing concern about the number of empty holiday homes. Other strong issues are parking complaints and a desire for a community shop or hub where services can be delivered.

Cllr Jones said: “These are early findings, and the survey remains open so that other ideas may emerge. We want to hear from all residents who have ambitions for where they live. If people want to lead groups to explore issues which concern them, we will support that.”

Suggestions from the floor included involving farmers, more things for young people to do, local food production and measures to generate local energy.

Residents can fill out the survey find out more information or register for the council’s mailing list by visiting https://www.llangattock-cc.gov.wales/llangattock-place-plan/