Councillors in Helston are calling for a change in the law so that solar panels can be put on the roof of the historic Guildhall.

The idea was first raised in 2011 but not taken forward when the council ran into problems, as the building, which is the home of the town council and the focal point of the dances on Flora Day, is listed and in a conservation area. 

However, after declaring a climate emergency in March this year, the town council wants to revisit the possibility.

It is at the suggestion of councillor Dave Potter, who is also chairman of the Helston Climate Action Group.

He said: “It would be good for the community, having solar panels on this building, and it’s as much as anything a statement that a public building, listed in a conservation area, can get planning permission.”

Councillor Mike Thomas, who also represents Helston at Cornwall Council, said he too had raised this matter with officers at county level but been told currently the law nationally prevents it from happening.

“But this council can lobby through our MP, to ask for this to be revisited. Clearly current legislation can change,” he added.

It was agreed that town clerk Chris Dawson should write to the head of planning at Cornwall Council and also West Cornwall’s MP Derek Thomas, asking for his support in changing the law.

Councillor Dave Potter also wanted to go a step further and submit a planning application for solar panels on the Guildhall now, to show intent.

“The legislation might not support it but let them come out and say that; a triple pronged attack,” he said.

This was despite town clerk Mr Dawson reminding members that there was a cost in submitting a planning application, which, even with a reduction for councils, would be around £100 of taxpayers’ money being spent when it was known to fail.

He said that in 2011 the plans were submitted but withdrawn when it became clear they did not have the support of the planning officer. The documents still existed though, and he suggested sending a copy with their letter calling for a change in law, to show the council’s intention.

Mr Thomas also believed submitting another application too soon could undermine the town’s position with Cornwall Council.

Mr Potter subsequently agreed to withdraw his proposal, but said he would be raising it again if the council did not get a “definitive way ahead” in January.