Adventure golf course recommended for listed park

An adventure golf course could be built on a disused croquet lawn in a town's historic public park after plans were recommended for approval.

The proposal for the 18-hole course in Christchurch Park was submitted to Ipswich Borough Council by applicant Jackie Tennens in August.

According to the plans, the development will also make use of an existing kiosk at the site from which players will be able to hire golf clubs and buy refreshments.

Planning officers recommended approval, subject to conditions. The council will make a decision during a planning meeting on Wednesday.

The course would adopt a "naturalistic theme" and only be permitted to be in operation during the opening hours of the Grade II listed park.

Each of the holes would take on a different concept, with early illustrations showing one with large plastic worms and another with a large rabbit's head.

According to the blueprints, they will also have quirky names, be it Buzzin' Beehive, the Plunge Zone, Magic Mushroom Mound, Acorn Alley, or Stumpy Surprise.

Following a consultation period, four objections were lodged by residents who raised concerns about noise, the loss of green and historic spaces, and "visual clutter".

They also took issue with the impact it would have on the "character and tranquillity" of the area, the park's trees and wildlife, and nearby Butterfly Garden.

Others, however, considered the course to be a positive addition to the town, and said it would bring a disused area into use and "promote fun and activity".

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