A SENIOR councillor has warned against over-commercialising a town centre beauty spot.

Colchester Council revealed Putt in the Park is set to open in a disused bowling green in Lower Castle Park next year.

It has also opened the door for a “splash park” to be created in the Victorian boating lake.

But Darius Laws, Castle ward councillor, warned against over-commercialising the park.

He said: “There will undoubtedly be plenty of people who will be excited about mini golf coming to the town centre.

“The bowling green was not viable and I cannot see the mini golf being in any way raucous.

“But a splash park would certainly impact on the tranquility of Lower Castle Park and I would say that is something we have to take into account.”

The senior Conservative added: “I am no expert, but could room perhaps be made for it at Leisure World, beside the astroturf pitches?

“There is parking there already and it would connect to Leisure World’s offering quite well.

“With Castle Park, there is going to be occasional noise with concerts and charity events - this is what you expect - but a splash park would certainly change that and make noise bit of a more permanent feature.

“We should think very carefully about what plans are made because once it is done, it is very hard to go back.

“What many people love about Castle Park is its peace and tranquility, especially in the lower end.”