WORK will begin on a controversial mini-golf course in Colchester’s Castle Park in a matter of weeks.

Plans for Putt in the Park have been approved by Colchester Council.

It will see the upper bowling green converted into a 15-hole course, 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.

The bid was approved last month by officers as it was what has been described as a minor application and had not been called into the planning committee.

But Eric Fisher, of the Riverside Residents’ Association, said residents were disappointed the decision did not go to a public meeting.

He said: “Many expected it to go to a public meeting.

“People had submitted objection comments but didn’t get the chance to voice their opinion or back this up at a meeting.

“We weren’t informed as to what the process was going to be and we thought it would go before the planning meeting.

“People were ready to go and speak but they haven’t been given that opportunity.”

Mr Fisher also praised applicant Justin Fish for visiting residents and taking their objections on board.

The planning decision comes after a row erupted when the council decided not to run a public consultation on plans to change Colchester’s slogan to Britain’s First City.

A council spokesman said the approval of the Putt in the Park plans was in line with standard practice.

He added: “Only items that do not fall within the council’s adopted scheme of delegation are submitted for consideration by the planning committee.

“In this case, the application fell within our scheme of adoption and hence was not considered by the planning committee but by officers having regard to our adopted local plan and national policy together with any representations received.”

The demolition of the old pavilion and construction of the new pavilion, putting facility and café will begin next month.

The project is due to be completed in the summer.

Mr Fish, of Putt in the Park, said: “I am really excited to be bringing Putt in the Park to Colchester.

“Castle Park is already a stunning attraction and the addition of a Putt in the Park will bring even more for visitors.

“Work is due to begin soon and closer to completion I look forward to hiring staff and welcoming them to our team.”

Putt in the Park already has facilities in Battersea, Wandsworth and Acton Parks in London.

Councillor Tina Bourne added: “Putt in the Park is going to be a great addition to our Castle Park and will offer more opportunities for residents and visitors to get active and have fun.”