CHARD Town Council have finished installing solar panels on the Guildhall which is expected to make them "many many thousands of pounds" over their 20 year life.

The solar panels, which cost the council £13,546, are estimated to have made that money back within eight to ten years.

Cllr Andy Kenton, who headed the project to get solar panels put on the Guildhall, said: "We are expecting about a 13 per cent return, so we will be paid back within eight to ten years, and then the following eight to ten years we will make many thousands of pounds, as we as free electricity.

"It was about four years ago I suggested that we put some solar panels in for several reasons.

"We had money invested in an account which would give us a one per cent return. These solar panels will give us a 10 to 12 per cent return.

"Being a listed building, the work was done sympathetically, and if you walk by you wouldn't see them."

Ed Ringwood, operations manager at Chard Town Council, said: "This project started before I came to the council. There was concern from a conservation officer and English Heritage. When people say solar panels, it conjures up this image which we felt wasn't in keeping with the listed building."

The designed of the solar panels was adapted, so that the fixings are underneath the solar panels, which are themselves a similar shade to the roof.

"They (the planning department) were happy with that and gave us the go ahead," Mr Ringwood added.

"It was touch and go because it was to be done before January 14. We had it done and commissioned by January 8.

"We had listed permission and planning permission at the end of November, and both had conditions we looked at how we could overcome.

"Planning at South Somerset couldn't have been more helpful.

The council returned after Christmas and held a full council meeting on January 4. Work then began the next day, and was completed by January 8.

Cllr Andy Kenton added: "The company Solar Systems of Ilminster worked very well with Ed to make sure deadlines were met."

Chard mayor Dave Bulmer said: "I think the appearance of them is not that dramatic to the look of the building. It looks like the initiative is going to be a great success.