A training and supply facility in Cleator Moor for the Moorside nuclear power plant is being pushed for by local councillors.

The disused Leconfield Industrial Estate is being touted as a potential hub for the nuclear firm behind the multi-million pound plans.

Hugh Branney, Copeland councillor for Cleator Moor North, has been in talks with Regen North East Copeland (RNEC) and NuGen to make the case for the town.

Coun Branney said, at a Cleator Moor Town Council meeting, said NuGen suggested creating a car park in the town where a bus could collect nuclear workers and return them at the end of the day. The proposed car park would sit between Wath Brow and Parkside Road.

He suggested though, that these plans would "do nothing for the town except bring noise and pollution".

The Labour councillor wants to see something which would "develop the town" and suggested a supply site with training opportunities for local people could be an option.

Many town councillors showed support for the proposals at the town council meeting.

Cleator Moor was originally earmarked as a potential location for nuclear contractors' accommodation.

NuGen reportedly wanted to build "student-style", short-term, single-room accommodation for 280 workers, although it was originally suggesting it could house up to 1,000 in the town. 

However, in recent months, town councillors have reported a lack of interest in the town from the nuclear company.

Councillors said NuGen had cited a lack of "support from local authorities" and the town's distance from the A595 as reasons why Cleator Moor might not be favoured. 

A NuGen spokesman said: “NuGen began the first stage Strategic Issues consultation on the Moorside project in May 2015. During the 10 weeks of public exhibitions throughout Cumbria, more than 750 people took the time to provide feedback. 

"NuGen is looking forward to the start of the second stage Proposed Scheme consultation, which will last for 11 weeks from May 14. Cumbrians will be able to see more detail on the proposals, how the project has developed and how their feedback from stage one has been taken into account. 

"NuGen welcomes all comments, questions and suggestions and encourages everyone to again have their say.”