1:25pm Wednesday 17th March 2010
Paultons Park at Ower has been given permission to continue operating a popular ride that was built without planning permission.
On Tuesday the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) performed U-turn worthy of a rollercoaster switchback and allowed The Edge to stay in place.
The original application was rejected last year after residents complained about the loud screams made by people using the £1m ride.
The Edge was built outside the established boundary of the amusement park, most of which is covered by a certificate of lawful development.
NPA members debating the latest proposal to retain the ride were warned that it could be moved to another part of the site, without the need to obtain consent, if they again refused to grant permission.
Managing director Richard Mancey said the alternative location identified by staff was nearer some of the houses bordering the attraction.
He added: “It makes no sense to move this ride closer to our neighbours. It’s already in the best place for all concerned.”
NPA member Peter Frost accused Paultons of using “a degree of blackmail” to get permission to keep The Edge.
However, his allegation was greeted with cries of “rubbish” by fellow members of the authority’s planning and development control committee.
Those who spoke in favour of the application included Maureen Holding, who is also the district council’s Cabinet member for employment. The retired teacher, who claimed that The Edge was no noisier than a school playground, said the application had resulted in more than 1,400 letters of support.
“It’s good for jobs, it’s good for the local community – and the whole community wants it,” she said.
A previous proposal to retain both The Edge and The Cobra – another ride that was built without planning permission - was rejected last October.
NPA members subsequently approved an application to keep only The Cobra
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thisishampshire.net/trade_directory/