Objections have been raised to plans for a new power plant in Brampton.

A number of people have voiced concerns about proposed gas-powered electricity generators and radiators in a vacant building on Townfoot Industrial Estate.

Issues surrounding noise and “toxic” emissions are the main concern for residents living in Townfoot Park, to the east of the site.

Plans submitted to Carlisle City Council show how Bristol-based TGC Emerald Ltd wants to install and operate the three generators in Unit 5 at Centurion Court, which has been empty since 2005.

The proposed 1.5MW generators, which will be used to produce electricity for export to the grid during periods of high demand, will be powered by natural gas through an underground pipe from the existing gas network.

Plans also include a free-standing electricity substation and gas kiosk to the west of the main building.

One objector, who says they live 10.5 metres from the site boundary, claimed any emissions will impact on well-being and health.

The objector said: “We find in winter time, when a high-pressure system develops, this location is blanked by mist and any smells are contained within the area.

“Also we are housed on the eastern side of the proposed site and we fear that emissions in these conditions will be restricted and will migrate with the prevailing westerly wind air flow.

“My wife already suffers from asthma effects.”

Those in opposition think a location at the far side of the industrial estate should be reconsidered.

Another objector said: “This application seems to reflect least-cost option rather than best acceptable practice. There must be sites which reflect a more sympathetic approach to people as well as that of strategic and environmental requirements in general.”

Hearing more about the plans from one objector at their parish council meeting, community leaders in Brampton were also in opposition.

Councillor John Harding said: “I was the first person to move into Townfoot Park in 1990 and I’ve studied the map and you don’t realise how big it is.

“Why put it there? I’m concerned at the sheer noise of it. It’s very near houses.

“I think we should object against this one. There is plenty of other space on the industrial estate they could move it to,” added Mr Harding.

Chairman David Moorat said the site was inappropriate.

Documents accompanying the plans state: “To protect the amenity of the residential area to the east, the substation and gas kiosk have been located on the opposite side of the building from the nearby dwellings.

“There are no vents on the rear elevation, adjacent to the dwellings.

“The exhaust stacks have been located at the western end of the building.

“It is unlikely that they will be visible from the adjacent gardens, and it is considered that they will not result in any inappropriate visual impacts.”

It continues: “In terms of air emissions, natural gas will power the generators, no sulphur will be burned and there is no need for a chimney application.

“The exhaust stacks are at least 1m above the roof line of the building to ensure suitable dispersion.”

To minimise noise, the plans say the generators will be within acoustically-clad containers, within the existing building, and that they have been located as far from the residential area as practicable.”