Rail Carriages may be the answer to the housing problem

When taken out of service at the end of their life, railway coaches could make ideal homes with no planning problems if they are placed on unused sidings and marshaling yards.

A former rail station at Erwood (near Builth Wells) uses three carriages as an art centre.

Erwood Station Gallery showcases the very best in contemporary craft and applied arts in Wales and the Borders. Set in two thousand square feet of exhibition space housed within a railway station and 3 vintage carriages.

With over 50 artists and makers exhibiting their work the Erwood Station Gallery is the largest Contemporary Applied Arts Gallery in Powys. A whole range of artwork is on display. 

Erwood Gallery Tea Room provides wonderful homemade cakes (large selection of gluten free), limited number of filled rolls (groups to order in advance) tea and coffee within an inspirational gallery setting. There is also seating in one of the carriages as well as on the platform. There is a picnic site near to the river Wye and is ideal for walkers.

Below we show the spacious interior of one of the carriages:

One reader suggests hat the former Metal Box works could be used to convert railway carriages to modern homes.