More than 1,000 people have signed a petition to save a popular golf course that players claim is in danger of being built on if current plans are approved.
The plans in question submitted by Twigmarket are for an extension to create a three storey driving range, 8 floodlit football pitches, an adventure golf course and aerial high ropes course.
The plans also include the provision for extra parking that a development of this size would require however it would require building on three of the current nine hole course.
Nigel Wright, who launched the petition, said that building on the 9 hole course at the Broome Manor complex would be ‘detrimental to both the old & young who need the 9 hole course’
The plans, available to view on the Swindon Borough Council planning website, currently have around 300 official objections lodged.
One resident from Eldene say ‘It would be a tragedy to lose this green space in the heart of Swindon, which is used so regularly by both the younger and older generations’
Another comment makes reference to Swindon potentially losing another 9 hole course after the same operator, Twigmarket, closed the Highworth course after taking over the operation from Swindon Borough Council saying, ‘I think this would be a very sad day to lose yet another 9-hole golf course in Swindon and I strongly object to the plans.’
The petition requires 1,500 signatures to ensure the council must debate the topic with the aim of having the council instruct the planning department to reject the application.
Signing the petition, Steven Hares said: “The 9 hole course is used by everyone – from the beginners just starting out, to the juniors getting into golf, and the seniors who love to golf but can’t do a full 18 anymore. So, it should not be touched and should be left as is.”
And Claire Walton said “The 9 hole golf course is much needed and shouldn’t be built on as with most things SBC do it is very short sighted!”
You can add your name to the petition here.
