PLANS for the installation of 54 solar panels on the roof of a town centre building home to a pharmacy have been submitted.

An application proposing the solar panels on the existing roof of the site, on Shaw Street, has been put forward.

In the planning and design and access statement, it says the unit is occupied by Millennium Pharmacy on the ground floor and a doctors surgery on the first floor.

“The site is a corner plot surrounded by other commercial units and uses, with the frontage of the site interfacing with a restaurant and St Helens Central train station,” it adds.

“The site is located within the George Street conservation area.

READ > Rising concern as bus company cancels multiple services

“The proposal is to install 54 solar panels on the existing roof of the building over the front and rear roof slopes.

“Following a review of the proposal’s applicable policy and material considerations, it is of our professional view that the development is in compliance with all applicable policies as previously illustrated.

“The NPPF identifies a series of components that are considered critical to achieving sustainable development.

“In my opinion, the above assessment of the planning application proposals demonstrates that the application responds to, and is in accordance with, the requirements of the adopted planning policy within the development plan and material considerations relevant to the determination of the application.

“The scheme would provide betterment for the occupiers of the building allowing a better standard of accommodation providing sources of renewable energy and reducing the climate change impacts.”