A row between the operators of Broome Manor Golf complex and its members is set to continue after controversial plans to alter the site were rejected at this weeks planning committee.
The current plans from Broome Manor will see the course reduced from the current nine holes to six as leaseholder Twigmarket Ltd want to build eight all-weather football pitches and extra parking on the other three.
The plans are part of a wider scheme which will also involve a three-storey driving range and adventure golf course at the site – but they have been at the centre of a long-running dispute with golfers protesting the loss of a third of the site.
Disrespecting the current users of the Broome Manor complex, Twigmarket boss Jeremy Sturgess argued that members had shown less opposition to earlier plans, which were approved, for a health club and squash courts: “What’s the difference? I believe it’s football. I believe there’s an element of snobbishness – a golf elite who don’t want to share with footballers.”
Users of the course have objected to the proposals, along with support from South Swindon MP Robert Buckland, on the grounds it will restrict access for new golfers or those who may not be capable of playing 18-hole courses in the area.
Mr Strugess has already promised an appeal, which he will likely win with Swindon Borough Council having to foot the legal bill, so the argument continues.
