Wunsiedel, the Bavarian hometown of Adolf Hitler’s former deputy, Rudolph Hess, is to build a £20m theme park to try and deflect unwanted neo-Nazi attention and gatherings, reports The Times.

Thousands of far-right extremists and sympathisers gather every year in the German town where the former Nazi deputy is buried, to hold rallies in August commemorating his death.

The last Wunsiedel rally – held on 16 August, 2003 – had attendance figures of 2,600. There were 67 arrests for drunkenness and a variety of other offences including possession of objects banned under the German constitution, such as swastikas.

While counter-Nazi demonstrations often take place, they are often far smaller and the mayor and residents of Wunsiedel have become increasingly concerned of the negative effect the annual Nazi presence has on their town.

The theme park will be funded by a combination of local businesses and bonds and will be primarily aimed at attracting families to the town by concentrating on ancient historical events from around the world.