The 1838 workhouse is described as 'unusually distinguished'

The Grade II-listed Y Dolydd in Llanfyllin is under threat, but there are attempts to turn it into a community arts centre.

It is the only building in Wales on the list, drawn up by the Victorian Society, which is worried its rural setting puts funding in doubt.

In 2004, the workhouse, built in 1838, featured in the BBC Restoration series.

The society said that the workhouse, built by the county surveyor Thomas Penson, was a large complex of buildings and a "significant example" of its type.

"A building preservation trust owns the building and there has been a lot of local support for finding a good reuse," it added.

It raises the profile of the building, and it confirms that it's a building of national importance John Hainsworth, Y Dolydd Building Preservation Trust

"However, the building's isolated rural setting has worked against it and, with funding doubtful, the future of the building looks increasingly doubtful."

John Hainsworth, of Y Dolydd Building Preservation Trust, said the Victorian Society list confirmed the workhouse was of national importance.

"It raises the profile of the building, and it confirms that it's a building of national importance."

Mr Hainsworth said the trust had until December to raise �340,000 to repay a loan from the Architectural Heritage Fund used to buy the building.

The latest plans are to convert the workhouse into a community arts centre, office space and accommodation for tourists.