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More than two thousand people have signed a petition in a bid to save their local municipal golf course being covered over by concrete. 

Municipal courses are under threat across the UK right now as cash-strapped councils look to balance books and solve housing shortages.

And the concern is that a popular nine-hole layout in the Midlands is next on the chopping block.

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The Blaby District Council in Leicestershire have proposed closing Enderby Golf Course as part of their plans to build 800 homes and a new office park.

The nine-holer, which costs just over £10 to play, is regarded as one of the best value-for-money tracks in the Midlands but there are now plans for a new community called Hayes Gardens to replace it.

The council’s plans show that up to 800 homes are being proposed as part of the future development, which would see the end of the golf course and the nearby Carlton Park site.

That, however, has been met with strong opposition and 2,146 people have called for the golf course to be saved from closure.

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One petition read: “This whole area has significant importance to local and non-local residents for both physical and mental wellbeing. This accessible green space has been used and enjoyed by residents and non-residents for many decades, for recreational and leisure purposes.”

The course, also owned by banking firm Santander, remains open for now but the authorities have argued there are five other golf courses a “short drive” away from Enderby.

“We know there are some strong feelings behind the petitions,” Councillor Terry Richardson, leader of Blaby District Council said ahead of a January 28 debate.

“While councillors will debate the matter, this meeting will not see decisions made about land included in the local plan, or the future of district council facilities and green spaces. After the debates, the petitions will be referred to relevant departments; planning and assets.”


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Ben Parsons joined bunkered as a Content Producer in 2023 and is the man to come to for all of the latest news, across both the professional and amateur games. Formerly of The Mirror and Press Association, he is a member at Halifax Golf Club and is a long-suffering fan of both Manchester United and the Wales rugby team.

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