Two options for the former Dairy Crest facility in Whitland are being put forward which include housing, leisure and industrial uses.

We have to accept the facility will not open as a creamery but the sooner the site is developed for the benefit of the people of Whitland the better

Peter Davies, Farmers Union of Wales

The factory - which occupies a large area in the centre of the west Wales town - has not been used since its closure eight years ago, when 150 workers lost their jobs.

The company had been reluctant to sell the site for commercial reasons but finally agreed to let the plant go last year.

The proposals for the 19-acre site were drawn up following discussions with the surrounding community.

A consultancy team was commissioned by the Welsh Development Agency (WDA), Carmarthenshire council and Dairy Crest.

The studies were drawn up following the involvement of the local community at an 'Enquiry by Design' day when the ideas and views of local people and interested parties were taken into account.

The factory dominates the town's landscape

Mark James, Chief Executive of Carmarthenshire County Council, said he was encouraged by the response of the community.

He said: "We need a clear vision for the future of the town in order to provide it with a long term sustainable future and can not overstress the importance of local residents having their say on the future of the site."

Dairy Crest agreed to sell the site following local pressure but was believed to be reluctant pass it on to any potential competitor.

Benefit

The region of south west Wales is Wales's leading dairy producer.

Carmarthenshire has the largest number of dairy farms in Wales with more than 61,000 cows.

Peter Davies of the Farmers Union of Wales is disappointed the site is changing its use.

He said: "We have to accept the facility will not open as a creamery but the sooner the site is developed for the benefit of the people of Whitland the better.

"It appears the development is an exciting package which should be of significant economic benefit to the town and surrounding rural area."

The preferred options will be displayed at the Hywel Dda centre until 20 July.