Councillors are consulting local residents on future potential uses for two bowling greens on Old Heath Recreation Ground that are currently owned by the council but underused.  Cllr Lee Scordis, County Councillor for Abbey Division, working with other councillors is hoping to garner ideas from local residents about what they would like to see here.

“Cllr Theresa Higgins started this debate some time ago when she formed the Friends of the Recreation Ground.  However with time and now Covid this project seems to have lost momentum.  I am looking to ask residents again what they would like to see here that would cater for everyone.  Last time ideas ranged from a community orchard to a fenced area to walk your dog if they could not be let off the lead.  The area has changed vastly over the years and ranges from young families to people who have lived here their whole lives and in retirement.  It is important we come to a conclusion that satisfies the majority but is also realistic in today’s financial climate.  There is even an argument for Colchester Borough Council’s business-wing to look at an alternative that could also be of financial benefit such as a mini-golf course or even AstroTurf football pitches.  The potential for this site is quite significant.  Benefits to this area will hopefully help the council in the long-run with the car park as well as helping the local community café on the Rec”.

Pam Cox, a candidate in the upcoming borough council elections for New Town and Christ Church, said, ’The Rec is one of Colchester’s much-loved and historic green spaces. It would be great to see the old bowling greens turned into something that residents can enjoy once again.’

In the current pandemic, a survey will be run online initially but residents can contact Lee Scordis to provide feedback at 07947541573 or at cllr.lee.scordis@essex.gov.uk