Object

Representation ID: 4070

Received: 23/03/2021

Respondent: Dr Fiona Thompson

I am a member and frequent user of Express Golf at Shay Grange. Whilst I recognise the need for housing, using this space would remove an important element of recreation. Many golf courses are prohibitively expensive and elitist but Express Golf is the opposite thus creating accessible leisure facilities that attract a diverse range of local people and some who travel specifically. Outdoor pursuits are linked to physical and mental wellbeing and certainly my experience of golf is that it supports my wellbeing which has been affected detrimentally when the course has been closed due to lockdown. The site itself is affected by the water levels and is exceedingly wet at different times of the year - recent drainage has had to be put in on the driving range. Plus this is Green belt land which should be protected according to the National Planning Policy Framework.