Old bank could become community and office space

People have been asked to share their views on the building in Helston

A council has proposed converting an old bank into offices and a community space.

Helston Town Council said plans to restore the town's Guildhall would reduce its available office space and so it has proposed creating more in the former Lloyd's Bank building in Market Place.

The council is asking for residents' views on the proposals, which would see it lease the building with the option of buying it in two years.

Town mayor Nicola Bosae said funding the repairs would have a "slight" financial impact on council tax bills for people in band D properties.

"[The Lloyd's building is] falling apart inside and outside will be next," Bosae said.

"We'd like to take it on for office space upstairs and community space downstairs if the town would like it.

"It will affect them financially slightly - if they are a band D property, it will cost them £35 for the first year only for the cost of the repairs for the building.

"After that, the running cost will only be £16 a year."

She said the majority of Helston residents were below band D.

She added: "Nobody wants to see it go. We don't want it turned into flats, it won't be the same.

"It's in the town centre, it's next to the Guildhall, and that's what's recognised in the town."

Residents can give their opinions on the town council website until 12:00 GMT on 31 October.