Golf range back on the agenda

PLANNING bosses at Warrington are to consider a controversial proposal for a golf driving range on farmland for a second time.
Members of the borough council’s development management committee have visited the site of the proposed driving range on land between Joy Lane and Wright Lane, Burtonwood to carry out an inspection.
Eight nearby residents have lodged objections, and there are also objections from Burtonwood and Westbrook Parish Council and from leader of Warrington Borough Council Terry O’Neill, who lives in Burtonwood.
The objectors all complain about the likely impact on the Green Belt, increased traffic problems and the loss of open green space.
There are also fears of noise, light pollution, loss of trees and wildlife habitat and anti-social behaviour.
Loss of agricultural land is also mentioned
The plans include a single-storey building, fencing, car parking and 20 golf driving bays, a teaching area, reception and office areas, toilets, changing rooms and car parking for 30 vehicles. There would be no floodlighting.
A similar plan was put forward in April 2005 but was refused because of the visual impact on a rural setting, perceived harm to neighbours and encroachment onto the landscaped buffer area forming the boundary of the adjacent Omega development area.
But the main building has been significantly reduced in size in the new plan.
Planning officers are now recommending the scheme be approved. They say most of the site would remain open and there would be no significant loss of agricultural land.