RESIDENTS' efforts to be environmentally friendly are being scuppered by city council planning restrictions barring them installing solar panels, it has been claimed.

Chris Williams, and his wife, Liz, applied to Worcester City Council for permission for £4,000 of solar equipment to be fitted to the roof of their listed home in St George's Square, Barbourne, in an effort to do their bit for the environment.

But the council has rejected the bid because it said it would detract from the beauty of the buildings.

However, the panel cannot be seen from inside the picturesque square. And, it can be removed at short notice as it sits on top of the roof slates.

Permanent Velux windows have been installed in other properties around the square.

"The council says one of its key objectives is to be environmentally friendly, but they won't let us put in the panel where it will work," said Mr Williams, aged 58.

"Our neighbours are fine about it - they don't have a problem with the panel," added Mrs Williams, aged 57.

"We think it was held up at the planning stage by the conservation lobby," she explained.

The couple applied, successfully, to have a panel fitted in the roof well they share with a neighbouring house, but it is in the wrong position. In November 2004, they applied to move it onto the roof where it would be visible from St George's Lane, but it was rejected.

"What we need is a discussion. Either we are serious about reducing carbon emissions or we aren't.

"We are prepared to lead the way, but the council are not doing anything to encourage individuals to take up the equipment," she said.

Worcester City Council conservation officer, Will Scott, dismissed any conflict between conserving buildings and promoting the uptake of clean energy production.

He stressed each application was judged on its merit and the potential impact on the built environment.

"We want to encourage as many people as possible to use sustainable energy sources. Solar panels can be put on lower roof pitches, garage roofs and even on platforms in the garden.

"There is no block on historic buildings using sustainable energy."

Speaking about Velux windows on nearby properties, Mr Scott again pointed out each application was examined on its merit.

The couple will appeal against the decision.