The plan includes a new 9-hole course, a driving range, and a clubhouse. ## Introduction The Kirkby Valley Golf Course, a historic gem nestled in the heart of the community, is set for a significant transformation.
Planning Committee Meeting
Knowsley Council is gearing up for a crucial Planning Committee meeting on Thursday, October 9. The focus of this gathering will be to evaluate the new proposals for the Kirkby site, a matter of significant interest to the local community. * Four rounds of consultation with local residents
- 9 objections raised
The council has been actively engaging with the community, conducting four rounds of consultations to gather feedback on the proposed plans. This proactive approach has led to the identification of nine objections, which will be thoroughly examined during the meeting. ## Community Engagement and Feedback The council’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity is evident through its extensive consultation process. Here’s a closer look at the community’s involvement:
- Four rounds of consultation
- 9 objections raised
The council has not only listened to the concerns but also taken them into account, demonstrating a genuine effort to address the issues raised by the residents. ## Proposed Plans and Concerns The Kirkby site proposals have sparked a variety of concerns among the local community. Here are some of the key issues:
- Environmental impact
- Traffic and infrastructure
- Preservation of local heritage
- Economic implications
The Planning Committee will delve into these concerns, aiming to strike a balance between development and community interests.
National Planning Policy Framework: A Balancing Act for Green Belt Construction
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has set forth guidelines that are pivotal in shaping the future of our green spaces. Central to these guidelines is the principle that any request for construction on green belt land must be carefully considered. The NPPF emphasizes the importance of preserving the ‘open’ quality of these sites, a characteristic that defines their essence and value to the community. * Preservation of Open Quality
- The NPPF mandates that any development on green belt land must not compromise the site’s openness. * This principle ensures that the intrinsic value of green belts, which serve as natural buffers and recreational spaces, is maintained. ## Local Council’s Analysis: The Impact on Site Openness
A recent analysis by the local council has brought to light the potential consequences of proposed expansions on green belt sites. The findings suggest that such developments could have a more pronounced effect on the openness of these areas than the current use of the land. * Comparative Impact Assessment
- The council’s analysis compared the proposed expansion with the existing setup on the same site. * It was concluded that the expansion would likely reduce the openness of the green belt more significantly.
Kirkby Valley Golf Course: A New Dawn
The Kirkby Valley Golf Course is set to undergo a transformative redevelopment, promising a fresh start for golf enthusiasts and local residents alike. The ambitious project aims to revitalize the area with a comprehensive redesign that includes a driving range, a practice putting green, and an adventure space. * Driving Range and Practice Putting Green The driving range will offer a variety of distances and challenges, catering to golfers of all skill levels. The practice putting green will provide a serene environment for players to hone their skills. * Adventure Space The adventure space will introduce a new dimension to the golf course, offering activities such as zip-lining, rock climbing, and obstacle courses. This addition will attract a broader audience, including families and thrill-seekers.
The councl’s planning report notes: “The aim of the proposals, as stated within the Planning Statement is to turn a currently an ailing, not fit for purpose, unsafe, unattractive, unviable facility into a fit-for-purpose golf destination.” The report later added: “The benefits of the scheme are considered to be significant.”
