A community has spoken out about its concerns over plans to build a small power plant in a Copeland village.

Residents of Haile, near Egremont, are worried about the visual impact of the plant – which would be set inside an 80m by 24m compound – as well as potential noise issues and smells from the generator.

Cumbria County Council’s Highways Authority and Copeland ward councillors also raised concerns about the proposals.

However, applicants Rydberg Development Company say the plant will generate electricity to meet peaks in demand providing “security of supply”.

At a Copeland planning meeting on Wednesday, councillors agreed to visit the site before making a decision.

Five residents had written letters of objection also concerned about disruption to roads.

They also claim they have been misled over the size and purpose of the engines, and highlighted inadequate access to the site.

The proposed 20MW plant would include 10 gas-driven engines, side by side, each housed in a weather-proof steel container.

Natural gas would be used to run the engines and a chimney is included in the application.

A new access route would be created along with two car parking spaces.

Objections were also raised by the Highways Authority over inadequate information provided in the application including issues over access, off-street parking, the effects on local traffic conditions and public safety.

Haile Parish Council also raised initial concerns.