The Local Government Finance Bill going before Parliament could give Cornwall Council the power to waive business rates for public conveniences.

The new legislation would save parish councils hundreds or even thousands of pounds each year.

The business rates are a considerable burden for communities such as Looe and Polperro, said Cornwall Councillor Edwina Hannaford.

‘We have long been lobbying for a change in Government policy to allow Cornwall Council to waive business rates on toilets,’ she said.

‘The quay toilets alone in Polperro have rates of over £1,000 per annum.

‘These toilets are paid for by the residents and businesses in Polperro.  

‘I also hope that the Government will recompense Cornwall for the loss of these rates; it’s estimated that this could be as much as £250,000.’