Imagine a world where prehistoric roars echo through the countryside, but must suddenly fall silent. Ralph Court Gardens, a unique attraction nestled near Bromyard, found itself navigating a surprising challenge: controlling the volume of its dinosaur inhabitants.
The park’s creators, Stephen and Paula Morgan, initially received planning permission with specific stipulations. These weren’t about the dinosaurs’ appearance, but their sound – a limit on volume, duration, and the number of roaring creatures allowed to vocalize simultaneously. Noise-dampening barriers and strategic planting were also required.
Complaints soon surfaced, describing unsettling “screeches and horn-like sounds” drifting from the park. These concerns prompted a retrospective planning application after eleven new dinosaurs joined the prehistoric parade, a step the Morgans realized, too late, required further approval.
An environmental health officer’s assessment revealed the need for continued vigilance. While neighbors and the local parish council didn’t formally object, the council acknowledged a potential conflict between the park’s theme and the surrounding natural landscape.
Despite concerns about visual impact being minimal, officials stressed the importance of ongoing noise control to protect the peace of nearby residents. The park was instructed to adhere to a strict noise management plan, including evening closures.
Exceptions were made for special events like Halloween and Christmas, extending operating hours until 8 pm. However, subsequent sound tests revealed some dinosaurs were exceeding acceptable decibel levels, prompting adjustments to their audio settings.
“We have an issue with one particular neighbor unhappy about anything we do,” explained Stephen Morgan. “They complained about everything, including noise levels.” He confirmed that adjustments were made after an audio test identified a few units exceeding the permitted volume.
Each dinosaur possesses individual audio controls, allowing the park to fine-tune the soundscape based on visitor numbers and ambient noise. The Morgans emphasized that the planning process, while costly, hasn’t diminished the attraction’s popularity since its opening in 2025.
The story highlights a fascinating intersection of imagination and practicality – a reminder that even prehistoric creatures must sometimes respect the peace and quiet of the modern world.
