A controversial £500,000 seafront funfair could be just months away from becoming a reality, it emerged today.

Island Leisure boss Scott Petty first announced he wanted to build a theme park on Canvey's Labworth recreation ground in June 2001 but almost immediately hit snags.

Planning for the future - Scott Petty reveals the extent of his theme park Picture: ROB BROWNE

Nearby residents opposed the proposal saying it would encourage underage drinking and youth nuisance in the area.

It then emerged the Castle Point Council-owned site was protected by an ancient covenant prohibiting the building of a funfair on the land.

However, councillors and the council's lawyers looked into the problem and have now announced the ban might not be enforced.

Mr Petty said: "We have to sign the lease, then we will start building. We are hoping to start by the end of the month and have the funfair up and running in eight months."

Published Friday, January 3, 2003

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