Residents Divided Over 50-Foot Rollercoaster in Hucknall

A 50-foot rollercoaster built by Mellors Group stands on Sandford Lane in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire, beside a 12-house new-build road. The Nottinghamshire family-owned firm has been assembling and testing the ride; residents have seen carts whizz round the track. The structure is believed destined for a buyer in Dubai. Ashfield District Council is considering retrospective planning permission. Jack Welsh, 45, who runs a tattoo shop, and wife Kirsty, 43, say they are not bothered and it has been a pleasure to watch it grow. They prefer it to a block of flats with antisocial behaviour and drug addicts, and their eight-year-old daughter Sapphire likes rides. Kirsty said watching from the window can be more fun than the TV. Anonymous neighbours say it ruins views from almost every window, feels like living next to a funfair, is not suitable full-time, and that workers can see into gardens and bedrooms. Residents also cite urban explorers climbing the track over six weeks and loose straps left overnight crashing in the wind. James Mellors said the ride has been there longer than anticipated but is temporary, and the firm aims to be good neighbours and appreciates concerns. How long it stays and the planning decision remain open.