The station has been used for films and television dramas

General manager Robert Crew said the changes would affect "the traditional atmosphere" of the area.

Mr Crew says the steam railway is a popular tourist attraction and has often been used as a film backdrop.

Charnwood Borough Council has received an application for a three-storey block of flats with parking next door.

"It will completely block our view and ruin the ambience of the station," Mr Crew said.

Smoke warning

The general manager says the noise and smoke from the railway might "create friction" between the new neighbours and the railway enthusiasts.

"It is an area where engines stand prior to departure and there is inevitably smoke and ash and steam - which will be whipped up and head towards the flats.

"We want the buildings to be farther away from our site and we would prefer low-level housing."

The railway, located on the edge of the town of Loughborough, was recently awarded Grade II listed building status.