A DECISION which could allow a coffee shop to open in Brecon is due to be made this month.

The Welsh chain of Coffee#1 applied to the Brecon Beacons National Park for change of use planning permission earlier this year in order to convert the former Blockbuster film rental store in the town centre's High Street Inferior, from retail to mixed use.

It has also been revealed a national clothing retailer had in April and May this year expressed an interest in leasing the unit.

The proposed coffee shop has caused a stir among local businesses and a petition intended to prevent the chain, owned by Welsh brewers Brains, from opening has attracted more than 360 signatures.

Councillor Paul Ashton, a member of the park authority has called in the applications so they are decided by the park's planning committee, rather than planning officers. The applications will be put before the park's Tuesday July 14 planning committee.

There has also been opposition from The Brecon Beacons Park Society who have concerns over the impact the change of use would have on the listed building and the conservation area.

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