The Lucky Onion has applied to Cheltenham Borough Council for permission to install solar panels on No. 131 Promenade.

The application is for listed building consent for PV panels on the roofs of the Grade II* listed 125, 127 and 133 Promenade, which all make up part of the popular hotel, restaurant and bar.

This latest planning application runs alongside an application to replace the controversial marquees outside No. 131 with a permanent, unobtrusive terrace designed to complement the Regency architecture of the buildings.

The application includes the removal of a modern conservatory to the side of 133 Promenade, on the venue owned by Superdry founder and CEO Julian Dunkerton.

If it gets the go-ahead, the development will reduce No. 131's carbon emissions by an estimated 1397kg a year, directly supporting the council's climate emergency objectives.

In a letter to support the planning application, Simon Firkins of SF Planning, wrote: "These proposals seek to enhance the sustainability credentials of the buildings through the installation of photovoltaic panels in unobtrusive positions at the site, while simultaneously improving the setting and character through the removal of a modern conservatory extension.

"The application aligns with the wider strategy to safeguard the future of the assets and to make the buildings and their associated use more energy efficient, less reliant on fossil fuels and viable into the future."

The proposal is for a low-profile solar array on the modern flat roof of 125-127, concealed behind high parapets, and individual panels within the set-back roof of 133. All installations have been designed with reversible fixings and minimal visual impact.

The careful positioning and reversible installation methods will ensure the historic fabric of the buildings remains protected, aligning with the need for sustainable development which respects local character, as highlighted in the Cheltenham Plan.

The proposed removal of the modern glazed conservatory on 133 will reinstate the historic spatial separation between buildings and enhance the original Regency villa layout.

Simon Firkins continued: "The proposals have been carefully thought through to improve both the environmental performance and safeguard the historic character of these Grade II* listed buildings."

The Design and Access Statement from Tyack Architects said: "Whilst the solar PVs will have a minimal visual impact, when taken together with the removal of the modern addition conservatory, the proposals will result in a net positive impact on the street scene and help restore the historic villa setting of no.133.

"The modernising of the energy generation system with highly efficient solar PVs will assist in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the group of buildings."

The proposals are expected to be decided in the coming weeks.