THE owner of a golf range plans to turn it into a hotel and business park, creating hundreds of jobs.

Chester Jervis, owner of Colchester Golf Range, in Old Ipswich Road, Ardleigh, has applied for permission to redevelop the site into a 58-bedroom hotel and 4,000sq m business park.

The planning application reveals the hotel could be joined to the adjacent Crown pub and restaurant.

Mr Jervis said: “The golf range has been there for about 24 years, but unfortunately it is no longer viable. It is a stand alone range and most other ranges in the area have nine-hole or 18-hole courses attached to them.”

Travelodge and an undisclosed “international company” have expressed interest in the site. Mr Jervis said the development, had the potential to create many jobs.

Other types of business interested in the site include a solicitor, data company, plumbing and heating companies and car park management companies.

The application describes the driving range as an “under use of the site, surrounded by competing commercial activities”.

It reveals Vintage Inns, the owner of the Crown pub and restaurant, have been approached and are supportive of the proposed development and the potential to provide a linked service.

The proposal is only an “outline” application, which means more detail will be added at a later date.

Tendring Council has the final say on the plans.