Vacant shop premises in the centre of Helston are being considered by the district council as suitable venues for its new base in the town.

Kerrier has identified three possible locations for a new "one stop shop" to replace its offices at The Willows, which is proving a heavy financial burden on the council.

Meeting last week, town councillors heard one site- the tourist information centre in Meneage Street - was not considered suitable, and Kerrier was instead looking at part of the former Dingles store or the former Dewhurst butchers premises.

Concern was raised that the move would mean another town centre shop premises being converted into an office - a trend previously resisted by members.

The lack of nearby parking was also raised, but Sue Swift said the large car park at The Willows was often full of shoppers taking advantage of a free parking area and not available anyway.

She added elderly and disabled people often found it difficult to get to The Willows and a Kerrier premises in the heart of the town would be more convenient.

Several members suggested the council should continue the fight to retain The Willows but town mayor Nick Martin said long-term costs associated with the building would be "quite horrendous". Danny Keay agreed it was time to consider an alternative.

"Without a doubt we will lose The Willows," he said. "We have fought to keep it but the time has come that we will have to think again."

Members agreed their preferred alternative premises would be the former Dingles site, but only as a short-term option pending a more suitable location.