PAULTON'S Park is reviewing its options after the New Forest National Park authority has refused planning permission for two rides.

However, the two multi-million-pound roller coasters may have to be dismantled following a decision by the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA).

Members have rejected an application to retain the white-knuckle rides at the Ower attraction, which cost a total of £4m but were installed without planning permission.

The decision came despite planning officers recommending the committee approve the scheme.

Objectors attending a meeting of the NPA’s planning committee complained about the screams made by people visiting Paulton’s Park.

David Allenby, of Home Farm, Ower, said residents had been prepared to tolerate increasing noise levels until the Edge opened earlier this year.

People experiencing the ride sit on a giant disc that travels along a 90m track at more than 40mph.

Mr Allenby said: “The resulting synchronised screaming as the ride appears over the tree tops has ensured that we have not been able to enjoy the simple pleasure of reading, let alone any other tranquil pastime.”

The committee also heard from people living in the neighbouring parish of Copythorne.

Lady Kara Hawks, chairman of Copythorne Parish Council, warned that Paulton’s Park could develop into an Alton Towerstype attraction if the application were approved.

NPA member Peter Frost added: “You reach a point where a line has to be drawn – and the Edge is that line.”

Planning officers said the two rides were outside the main body of the amusement park and were not covered by permitted development rights.

But managing director Richard Mancey urged the committee to approve the application.

He said Paulton’s Park was quieter than the M27 motorway, which passes through Ower, and warned that ten people would lose their jobs if the rides were closed.

NPA member Maureen Holding – a former teacher – supported the application.

“I stood by the rides for quite a while and I can say they made no more noise than a playground full of children,” she said.

“About 75 per cent of New Forest’s economy depends on tourism and Paulton’s Park makes a great contribution. To me, it’s important that people are employed and can support their families.”

However, the application was rejected by seven votes to five.

An enforcement notice will be served before Christmas.

Paulton’s Park will have to close the rides unless it successfully lodges an appeal against the NPA’s decision.

A Paulton’s spokes-man said the directors were reviewing their options.

He stressed that the rides would be open during the half-term holiday.

The NPA approved an application to build an indoor play area at Paulton’s Park.

A separate proposal to change the classification of the 140-acre site from country park to amusement park was also supported.