Driving range and junior golf centre get go-ahead

The centre is set to go on Bradeley Green Lane, Wirswall, off the A49

Plans for a golf driving range and junior academy centre on the Cheshire-Shropshire border have been approved.

PGA professional Rob Ashbrook applied to Cheshire East Council for permission to set up the 16-bay range and centre complex off Bradeley Green Lane in Wirswall, near Whitchurch.

Sixty-three people had written to the council expressing their support for the scheme, with 19 objecting.

The proposal also includes the construction of a reception/office, driving range building, car park and site access, along with the installation of flood lights.

One local resident told councillors that not one neighbour had written in support of the plans, adding the proposed hours of 09:00 to 21:00 seven days a week were "completely unacceptable", and there were significant highways issues too.

Mr Ashbrook told the committee the proposal offered social and economic benefits.

“It also offers an inclusive space for individuals of all ages and abilities to engage in physical activity, enjoy the outdoors and learn a new skill,” he said.

Some councillors were concerned about light pollution in a rural area, but a proposal to limit the site's opening hours in evening in winter was dropped over concerns it could hamper the success of business.

Nine councillors voted to approve the plans and two voted against.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.