The future of the Upminster Mini Golf Course is looking uncertain due to a lack of funding, according to the Leader of the Havering Residents’ Association.

Cllr Clarence Barrett has hit out at the administration over their lack of investment in the golf course in Hall Lane, Upminster.

He said: “This is a great community asset which should be enjoyed by young and old alike. Without a moderate degree of investment it will become even more run down, attracting fewer users and placing its long term future as green and open space in jeopardy.”

The lack of funding at the venue, was revealed at the full council meeting on Wednesday July 18 following a question by Cllr Barrett.

The course, which belongs to the Council, is open seasonally at weekends, bank holidays and school holidays, however the condition of the course has deteriorated significantly over recent years.

Cllr Barrett said: “Anyone passing the course would not know it was there because there is no decent signage, no promotion, no marketing and, if this carries on, no future.

“The facility includes a crazy golf course which is in an appalling condition, in fact it is difficult to know where the crazy golf ends and the mini golf begins!.

“The Council say they have no money but there was a reported revenue under-spend of �6.7 million last year and it would be entirely reasonable to use some of that. The course needs investment to generate interest and increase usage, this is not only an investment in a business, but an investment in our green and open spaces which we must protect for future generations.”

Cabinet Member for Culture, Towns and Communities, Councillor Andrew Curtin, said: “As part of our efforts to save �40 million over the next two years, we looked for a partner to help us manage the golf course. Unfortunately this was not successful. Once this season is over we will look at other options.”