Golf driving range plan for farmland

A PLAN to construct a golf driving range on farmland at Warrington has triggered major objections.
Leader of Warrington Borough Council Terry O’Neill has objected to the scheme on land between Joy Lane and Wrights Lane, Burtonwood.
Members of Burtonwood and Westbrook Parish Council have also lodged objections – along with eight householders who live near the site.
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 plan would 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 ot 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 recommending the scheme be approved. They say most of the site will remain open and there will be no significant loss of agricultural.