CONTROVERSIAL plans to create a mini-golf course in Castle Park have moved one step closer.

Putt in the Park has submitted an application to convert the upper bowling green, on the eastern side of the popular beauty spot, into a 15-hole course, in a move which will create six new jobs.

The old bowling pavilion will be demolished and a smaller clubhouse will be built on its foundations, selling sandwiches and drinks.

Castle Park has a rich heritage and is Grade II* listed in the Historic Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Importance.

However, Putt in the Park said its proposals will enhance the surrounding heritage assets not hurt them.

A heritage statement said: “Viewing areas for the Roman Wall are proposed for two locations on the south side of the putting course.

“These will enable the wall to be viewed in context with the surviving sections of the rampart and ditch which is currently very difficult for visitors to see.

“A new pathway on the east side is also proposed and this is intended to link up with Duncan’s Gate, hopefully resulting in greater awareness of the smaller of the two surviving gateways within the town walls and providing greater interaction between the wall and the ditch.”

Landscaping will include bay, lavender, rosemary and olive trees in a “deliberate attempt to inspire a Roman feel”.

The mini-golf site itself is located above part of the town’s Roman ditch, which is a designated heritage site.

However Historic England has backed the scheme and said Putt in the Park has taken adequate steps to prevent any damage to the area.

Colchester Civic Society has objected to the plans, saying there is not enough detail on the pavilion.

A spokesman said: “These gaps in the application are notable and worrying for a building on such a particularly sensitive site.”

In further recognition of Castle Park’s importance to the town, Colchester Council’s grounds maintenance contractor, id Verde, has won recognition for its workmanship.

The firm was awarded Principal Award Winner 2018 at the British Association of Landscape Industries National Awards.

Tina Bourne (Lab) councillor responsible for communities, said: “We are extremely proud the quality of the beautiful grounds at Castle Park has been nationally recognised through this prestigious award.

“The outstanding planting and maintenance of the park by idVerde, achieved by working in partnership with our Park Ranger team and supported by the Friends of Castle Park Volunteers, marks out Castle Park as a jewel in the crown of Colchester’s parks and open spaces.”