PLANS to modernise a golf course in a bid to attract younger golfers have moved a step closer.

Castle Point Golf Course, in Somnes Avenue, Canvey, wants to replace its 18 hole course with two nine hole courses. The Echo understands operator Glendale Golf Course is preparing a planning application for the land, which is owned by Castle Point Council.

The smaller of the two courses, known as a par three, will be designed for less experienced golfers. A driving range and practice facility would also be retained.

There will also be a full sized nine hole course for regular golfers. It is understood the golf club is looking to raise this due to poor drainage facilities which resulted in the course being closed off and play being suspended in winter months.

One example saw the course shut for 76 consecutive days between January 2015 to March 2015.

The Echo also understands there will be a mini golf facility at the course, which has lost about 18,000 players in nine years.

In 2006, 32,000 players teed off from course, compared with 13,600 in 2015.

Work by the course operators saw this number pick up to 14,465 players for 2016.

Canvey councillors met with representatives from Glendale in June to discuss details about the revamp.

Martin Tucker, who plays regularly at the course, welcomed plans to change the course and praised Glendale for their running of the course.

Mr Tucker, a town councillor and town mayor of Canvey, believes that the plans could increase the number of players at the course.

He said: “I was over there on Friday and I have never seen it looking busier.

“Glendale have done a really good job getting things going, particularly with the way the grass has been cut and things like that.

“The one concern I would have is that any plans that come forward do not impact on the allotments which the town council operates. We have spent a lot of money trying to put up a fenced there to protect them from vandals.

“I support the plans.”

Tom Brooke, managing director of Glendale Golf said: “We have submitted pre planning advice with the view of potential proceeding with a formal application.

“We are looking to protect the long term sustainability of the golf course, enhancing year round use in particular with a view to keeping the course open in winter months and increasing use from golfers on Canvey and surrounding areas.”