A popular garden centre in Herefordshire has been forced to impose a curfew on its roaring animatronic dinosaurs following a series of noise complaints from disgruntled neighbours. Ralph Court Gardens, which launched its 'Dinosaur World' attraction last year, must now ensure the prehistoric beasts fall silent by 4pm each day.
The Roar Heard Across the Countryside
The attraction, which allows visitors to walk amongst moving and vocal dinosaur models, became an instant hit with families after it opened in 2024. Its success prompted owners Stephen and Paula Morgan to expand, adding 11 new models to the display. However, the owners were unaware they needed separate planning permission for the new installations and subsequently had to make a retrospective application.
It was during this process that the council assessed the noise levels. The investigation was triggered by neighbours' complaints, with one resident taking to social media to lament the 'constant screeching' and the models' movements unsettling their horses. The council's environmental health officer concluded that the 'screeches and horn-like sounds' were out of context with the rural surroundings.
Council Intervention and New Restrictions
Herefordshire Council has now laid down the law. As part of the approved planning conditions, the dinosaurs must be switched off by 4pm daily. The ruling means that during special evening events for Halloween and Christmas, when the gardens stay open until 8:30pm, the dinosaurs will be silenced a half-hour early.
Owner Stephen Morgan acknowledged that a couple of the models were found to be a decibel too loud during an audio test and have since had their volume adjusted. 'The dinosaurs all have audio controls, they all have volume knobs,' he stated, emphasising their willingness to comply. He also noted that the primary issue stems from one particular neighbour who, he claims, is unhappy with their operations.
A Roaring Success Despite the Controversy
Despite the noise row, Stephen Morgan reports that Dinosaur World has been a tremendous success for the business. In a climate where many visitor attractions are seeing a downturn, Ralph Court Gardens has experienced an upturn in visitors.
'Ultimately that means we can stay open and create jobs for people,' Morgan said, expressing his pleasure with the attraction's performance. The retrospective planning application was approved by councillors, allowing the popular exhibit to continue operating, albeit with stricter noise controls to maintain peace with its rural neighbours.
