Protest as controversial housing plans could shut iconic Crawley golf club
Ifield Golf Club's been asked to vacate by next April to make way for a potential 3000 homes
Campaigners are protesting against controversial housing plans which could see an iconic golf club shut in Crawley.
Ifield Golf Club's been asked to vacate by next April - during it's centenary year - to make way for 3000 homes between Crawley and Horsham.
It comes after ongoing resident campaign, Save West of Ifield, urged for the plans to be dropped, citing concerns over congestion and air pollution.
Objections "blatantly ignored"
The campaign's spokeswoman Cathy Durrant accused Homes England of an ‘aggressive and cynical strategy’ to push the West of Ifield development through the planning system.
She added: “Whilst having the right to serve notice as the club’s landlord, by taking this action they have blatantly ignored the views of all those who object to the application and consequent closure of the club, not least consultees such as the government agency Sport England, and other bodies such as England Golf and Sussex Golf.”
Campaigners believe Homes England should withdraw the notice to quit the site until planning permission is received from Horsham District Council - which is unlikely to come for several months.
Ms Durrant added: “This protest will give golf club members and the local community the opportunity to express their deep anger and unhappiness with Homes England’s actions.”
Homes "much needed": Homes England
Homes England said: "Submitting this planning application is a significant step towards delivering a vibrant, sustainable community at West of Ifield.
“Our vision is to create a place where people can live, work, and thrive, supported by high quality infrastructure and green spaces that respect the local environment.
"Our proposals will not only deliver much-needed new homes for the region but also secure investment in new infrastructure, jobs, community facilities.
“We look forward to working with the council’s, stakeholders and local residents through the planning application determination process.”