Neighbours living next to a new Tesco in St Ives said they have been left outraged by plans to build an air conditioning plant close to their homes.

Michael and Karen Chapman, of Needingworth Road, told The Hunts Post they are horrified by changes to the planning application for the Tesco Express which would allow a plant for an air conditioning and condenser unit moved from on top of the former Manchester Arms building to behind the store – metres away from their garden.

The application, submitted to Huntingdonshire District Council by CGMS Consulting on behalf of the supermarket chain, also includes an ATM cash machine, the re-location of the entrance doors to the extension, signage on the building and a totem pole for advertising in the car park.

The Chapmans said all of their bedrooms and their sitting room windows face where the plant, which would run all day, is proposed.

“To say we hold out little hope of our objections being considered is an understatement,” Mr Chapman said. “Despite the objections of the town council, residents and local district businesses, the construction of the premises went ahead with Huntingdonshire District Council’s approval.

“So far we have tolerated five months living next door to a construction site using heavy plant seven days a week, including bank holidays. We have been unable to sit in our garden or hang out washing for much of that time.”

A sound impact survey, carried out by KR Associates, concluded: “The resultant levels are unlikely to give rise to complaints from the local residents.”

About 20 jobs will be created when the store opens this summer.