Llandudno Hospitality Association (LHA) members will be eligible for loans of up to £100,000 from Carbon Trust Wales to update their green credentials.

David Williams, chair of the LHA, said: "We are really looking forward to the partnership with the Carbon Trust. It is all about helping save energy and cutting bills."

"We believe this is the first partnership agreement within the hospitality industry and by doing a benchmark exercise hoteliers will be able to compare their costs with others. It will also allows a number of premises to receive a free inspection to allow them to ascertain whether they are energy efficient."

Loans, which start from £5,000, can be used to buy new boilers and energy saving light bulbs, to switch from electric to gas ovens and to insulate walls.

The loans will be repaid using money business saves on their energy bill following the improvements Mr Williams said the savings will greatly benefit business which have been effected by rising fuel costs.

He said: "We all know that new gas appliances, especially condensing boilers are much more efficient so there are premises that will save 20 per cent on their gas bills. It gives people the chance if they are planning an investment to bring it forward because of the loans. It is all part of the package to enhance Llandudno as a great tourist destination."

Once business have overhauled their premises they will be able to display the Green Dragon logo which recognises effective environmental management.

LHA members will be encouraged to join together to purchase energy saving products in the hope of increased savings.

Ray Rock, proprietor of the Headlands Hotel and supports the plan and has already taken a number of measures to save energy.

He said: "We have already done a lot to reduce our carbon footprint and our electricity consumption has gone down. Once we have done all we can to make Llandudno and eco-friendly town it might encourage more people to come here.
"This will encourage people to be environmentally friendly but it will have to be in keeping with the look of the town."