PLANS to bring the silver screen to the secluded Furness hamlet of Oxen Park have come up against opposition.

Six residents have objected to plans by Carol McNeill to adapt outbuildings at Manor Cottage, Oxen Park, into a community cinema, studio, craft room and guest bedroom.

Colton parish councillors have also raised concerns about the height of the proposed development, with neighbours' fell views being obstructed, a septic tank being overloaded, and car parking.

They wanted to know what checks would be made on films with certificates such as 18, and they thought grant money towards setting up the cinema would be better spent on much-needed refurbishment at Oxen Park's village hall.

They called for a site visit.

The Lake District National Park Authority's development control committee heard the cinema would accommodate up to 40 people, and the aim was to screen monthly films for local people.

In a report, planners were told the principle of creating a small cinema for locals was "sound" and would help to meet the social needs of isolated communities.

The report from planning officers said the scale, form and design of the building was considered acceptable, but off-road parking was crucial, and the plans should be refused unless this could be secured.

The applicant has been asked to get "a unilateral undertaking" from the village pub, owned by Hartley's Brewery of Ulverston, that would allow cinema-goers to leave their cars in the pub car park.

Planners agreed to visit the site before considering the plans because of "the strength of objections" from residents, and the views of the parish council.