FRESH plans have been submitted that could see more than 230 new homes built on a Widnes golf course.

Controversial proposals to build a new housing estate on the Widnes Golf Club site were rejected by planning chiefs in March following a campaign led by local councillor Andrea Wall. A petition opposing the development also attracted more than 2,000 signatures.

The club had planned to sell half of its 18-hole course to Anwyl Homes and said the project was vital to its continuing operation, as declining membership had left it with financial issues.

But planning officers said the scheme should be rejected as it would lead to a lack of green space and leave the town in what they said was the ‘highly unusual’ situation of no longer having an 18-hole course.

But Anwyl Homes has now submitted a revised planning application with some changes which it hopes will see the scheme get the green light.

As with the original application, the club’s existing 18-hole course would be replaced with a new 9-hole course, new clubhouse and green-keeping facilities. Widnes Golf Club would also invest in the 18-hole Blundells Hill Golf Club in Rainhill and make improvements to those facilities.

The combined membership would have the potential to play at both courses and developers said the plans would ensure the future of both locations.

The revised plans also include:

  • A reduction in the proposed number of homes from 249 to 233.
  • Additional green space, including a wide green corridor to accommodate mature trees.
  • More trees planted within the retained golf course.
  • Changes to the proposed access, including removal of a cul de sac access and all main access now taken from two junctions off Liverpool Road.
  • Improved footpath/ cycle links through the site.
  • Enhancements to the redeveloped golf course and proposed new club house.
  • Further detailed flood modelling and mitigation.

John Grime, managing director at Anwyl Homes Lancashire, said: “We’ve listened to objections from local people, Halton Council and statutory consultees and incorporated a number of changes which we think address their concerns.

“The new application takes their feedback on board and, hopefully, provides a way to revive the fortunes of a golf club that has seen its membership dwindle over the last 10 years.

“We are still preparing to lodge a planning appeal based on the original refusal but hope this fresh application will render an appeal hearing unnecessary.”