Opposition over plans to extend golf centre

Opposition over plans to extend golf centre

13 September 2017

A PROPOSAL to expand a key tourist facility in Newcastle is being opposed by local planners.

They are recommending that plans to expand an existing golf centre at the Castlewellan Road to provide a new indoor amenity area featuring a cafe and indoor soft play area should not proceed.

The recommendation will be discussed at today’s meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s Planning Committee in Newry.

Planners argue the proposal, which includes parking provision, is contrary to planning policy in that it would impact on traffic at this location and there are no “overriding reasons” why the development is essential in a rural location.

Politicians will be told today that the Environment Agency has no objections to the new indoor amenity and while the development site does not lie within a flood plain, insufficient information has been provided to enable full considerations of the proposal’s impact. It will also be confirmed today that Newry, Mourne and Down Council environmental health officials have no objection to the proposal.

Planners say no objections have been lodged in opposition to the proposal, explaining the new amenity area will measure almost 30 metres wide and 42 metres long, with a maximum ridge height of seven metres.

It is proposed to finish the building with insulated composite cladding to the roof and walls, with polyester coated guttering, doors and windows. The front elevation will have a rendered finish with locally sourced stonework around the door openings.

In a paper submitted on behalf of the Golf Centre ahead of today’s planning meeting, it is argued that roads officials are satisfied with the proposed development and the site is not a “typical rural location” as it is surrounded on three sides by development with the settlement of Newcastle.

“To all intents and purposes, the site is more within the settlement of Newcastle than out,” the paper continues. “Within the Newry, Mourne and Down Council Tourist strategy, Newcastle is identified as a hub with the local council’s aims within the document to develop new visitor attractions and amenities to create wet weather facilities and enhanced recreational family leisure amenities.”

Asking the Planning Committee to look favourably upon the proposal, the paper said the developer will use private funding in conjunction with a LEADER grant, subject to planning approval, to provide the new facility.

The paper adds: “The developer has been accepted for funding by a government body so we ask this is secured by approving this application and in turn a facility will be provided for Newcastle which will add to and enhance the council’s long term objectives for the town.”