Newbuild Estate Residents Divided Over 50ft Rollercoaster
Some find the towering test structure an eyesore, while others prefer it to potential housing.
Residents of a newbuild housing estate in Hucknall, Nottingham, are divided over a 50ft-high rollercoaster that has been looming over their homes for approximately 18 months. The structure is part of a testing facility for theme park rides that are built on-site before being sent to buyers.
Some homeowners on Sandford Lane have expressed frustration, calling the unfinished ride an 'eyesore' and stating that it 'ruins the views' from their properties. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, noted the intrusive nature of the structure, saying, "When the workmen are repairing it they can see right into your gardens and bedrooms which is a bit intrusive." Another described the constant presence of the ride as making them feel "like you're living next to a funfair."
Conversely, other residents have embraced the proximity of the attraction. Jack Welsh, 45, stated that his family is not bothered by the rollercoaster and finds it interesting to watch. "We'd sooner this here than a block of flats with antisocial behaviour and drug addicts hanging about," Welsh said. His wife, Kirsty, added that watching the carts whizz around the track can be more entertaining than television.
The Welsh family's daughter, an eight-year-old fan of theme parks, reportedly enjoys watching the ride.
James Mellors, a director at the family-owned firm operating the testing facility, acknowledged that the rollercoaster has been on-site longer than anticipated. He explained that it is a temporary structure and that its extended presence is due to challenges in its assembly. "It's the first one in the world, and it's just not quite been going together as well as it should," Mellors stated. He reassured residents that the facility is a work depot, not a fairground, and that the company aims to be a good neighbor.
Concerns have also been raised about urban explorers accessing the site and about the noise created by straps left exposed overnight. The company has stated that the rides are built and tested on-site before being shipped to their final destinations, with one resident speculating this particular ride is destined for Dubai.