THE firm behind plans for a £1million revamp of Basildon golf course has dismissed claims contaminated soil might be used.

Rumours have been rife golf course firm Jack Barker might import soil from London building projects, such as the Olympic Village, to landscape the course.

Basildon Council is still considering plans for a new clubhouse, 24-bay driving range and a radical landscaping scheme, involving 120,000 tonnes of soil.

The firm has now taken over day-to-day running of the council-owned course, and is set to sign a 99-year lease.

Chief executive Ron Mayden confirmed contaminated materials would definitely not be used.

Internet golf forums have claimed the firm made money by dumping unwanted soil on golf courses.

The issue was raised by Basildon Council Lib Dem group leader Geoff Williams.

He said: "There are widespread fears about the amount of spoil being brought in from East London and whether it might be contaminated."

Mr Williams said there were also concerns lorries delivering the soil would cause traffic problems.

Mr Mayden stressed: "Contaminated material can only be taken to licensed landfill sites. There are strict laws regarding it.

"Any material used on-site will have to be properly screened. We will only use inert substances such as soil or hardcore."

He added it had yet to be decided where the extra soil would be sourced.