A contentious proposal for the establishment of a driving range at the current Falmouth Pitch & Putt has sparked dissent within the Falmouth community. The plan, put forth by local councillor Alan Jewell, has garnered both support and opposition, with the Cornwall Council’s planning department recommending rejection of the proposal.
The proposed development entails the addition of a driving range, a much-needed facility for golfers in the area, to the existing pitch and putt golf course. The plan encompasses a single-storey building with eight driving bays, safety ball catch fencing, and external floodlighting. The range would operate year-round, commencing at 7am and concluding at varying times corresponding with the pitch and putt course’s operating hours, with the latest operating time being 11pm.
Despite modifications to the plans in response to concerns raised by the council’s highways officer, the planning department has advised against the proposal due to the visually intrusive nature of the proposed safety catch fencing and its potential to harm the area’s landscape and scenic beauty.
The decision regarding the matter will be made by the council’s central area planning committee, with varying opinions from councillors and residents contributing to the ongoing debate. While some contend that the driving range would address a deficiency in sporting facilities and benefit the mental and physical health of residents, others have raised concerns about the potential impact on the natural beauty of the area, light pollution, and the wellbeing of nearby residents.
Notably, the Falmouth Town Council and numerous members of the public have voiced their support for the proposal, underscoring the necessity to enhance sporting and recreational facilities in the town. Conversely, the Falmouth Bay Residents’ Association and other members of the public have expressed objections, citing potential adverse effects on the landscape and residents’ wellbeing.
With both support and opposition for the proposed driving range, the issue remains a subject of intense debate within the Falmouth community.
For further details on the planning application, interested parties can refer to reference PA23/01918 on the Cornwall Council’s planning portal. As the debate continues, it is evident that opinions are divided, and the decision ultimately lies with the central area planning committee.
This controversial proposal has ignited a spirited discussion within the community, reflecting the complexities and diverging viewpoints surrounding the potential development of the driving range at the Falmouth Pitch & Putt. As the decision date approaches, the debate serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement in local matters.