Golf driving range plan held up

PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have delayed a decision on a controversial proposal to construct a golf driving range on farmland.
Members of the borough council’s development management committee deferred consideration of the proposal, on land between Joy Lane and Wright Lane, Burtonwood, to allow time for them to inspect the site.
The scheme has triggered objections from eight nearby residents, Burtonwood and Westbrook Parish Council and from Cllr Terry O’Neill, leader of the borough council, who also represents the Burtonwood area.
They 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 recommended the scheme be approved. They said most of the site would remain open and there would be no significant loss of agricultural land.