A controversial proposal to build a new school in Hay-on-Wye by selling land to a developer has been postponed until after the local elections, Powys County Council has announced.

The council has been in discussions with Llandrindod Wells-based Gaufron Development over plans for a new 240-pupil primary school in Hay since August last year.

The council had hoped selling the site of the existing school in Oxford Road would fund the new school project, but a number of people fear Gaufron's plans to sell the land on a supermarket. Campaign group Plan B believe a supermarket in the town centre would damage local trade and destroy Hay's unique character. Members want to find an alternative way to fund the building a new, much-needed school.

Speaking this afternoon (Friday, February 17) leader of Powys County Council, Councillor Michael Jones said: "The council has received new proposals that need to be fully investigated before any decisions can be made about future primary school provision in the town.

"It is essential that full consideration is given to the new proposals and it is impossible to conclude that work before the council elections.

"Although the elections are not until May 3 the authority moves into pre-election period from March 19 which restricts its work.

"We have decided to postpone any decision at this stage and will refer the issue to the council’s new Cabinet when it is constituted in May."