A WOMAN was tragically found dead inside a public park this morning prompting council bosses and police to immediately close off the site.

Essex Police were called to Castle Park, in Colchester, at about 6.40am today, after officers received concerns for the welfare of a woman.

After the officers attended the scene, the woman was eventually located but subsequently pronounced dead.

READ MORE: Castle Park and museums CLOSED after police respond to 'incident'

As a result of the incident the decision was made to shut the park, which is run by Colchester Council, in addition to Colchester Castle and the Hollytrees Museum. 

Residents were also urged to avoid the area and to find alternative routes in order to access Lower Castle Park while the police conduction their investigations.

After being on lockdown for roughly three hours, the historic, Grade 2-listed site, spanning 11 hectares, was reopened alongside its attractions. 

According to Essex Police the woman’s death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will now be prepared for the coroner.