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A proposal to maintain a rollercoaster overlooking residential properties in Nottinghamshire has been refused by local authorities. The structure, which serves as a prototype, was installed at a former aerodrome near Sandford Lane in Hucknall. Nearby residents raised objections, citing concerns over noise disturbance, visual intrusion, and a loss of privacy caused by the rollercoaster’s presence.
Ashfield District Council formally rejected a retrospective application submitted by the Mellors Group, a fairground operator, on 20 October. The application sought permission to use Grade II listed hangars on the Watnall Road site for rollercoaster testing and storage. The council described the proposed use as “incongruous,” warning that the potential scale of the rollercoasters would create an “overbearing and oppressive” environment for the local community. In response, Mellors Group announced plans to appeal the decision, expressing their belief that the council had misunderstood the aims of their proposal and hoping to find a resolution addressing the raised issues.
The buildings in question date back to 1916 and have historical significance, having been used by the RAF and Rolls-Royce in the development of aircraft technology. Mellors Group, known for attractions such as Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland, applied for a change of use permission on 25 August following reports by residents that the site was being used beyond its approved planning classification. Documents indicate the site was previously designated solely for storage, but was being used for both storage and manufacturing purposes. The application noted that the change of use had been in effect since 1 June 2025 without prior consent, involving assembly, dismantling, and maintenance of amusement rides within the site, including operations involving the listed hangars and external areas.
The council emphasized in its refusal notice that the rollercoaster would diminish the historical setting of the hangars and raised privacy concerns linked to workers conducting high-level repairs. Additionally, the potential noise impact of the testing activities was cited as a significant issue. James Mellor, director of the Mellors Group, acknowledged delays in shipping and highlighted the challenges posed by conflicts in the Middle East, which had slowed painting and public deployment of the rollercoaster. He expressed a keen desire to have the coaster removed from the site as soon as possible and indicated that the sought change of use would enable work on other rides, many of which would operate out of public view below the fence line. Mellor stressed that prolonged storage of the coaster was not beneficial financially and reassured that the company aimed to minimize local impact while completing necessary maintenance
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