Golf driving range project looks to be heading for the bunker

Derwent Holdings Ltd is seeking planning permission to build a range on uncultivated agricultural land to the south east of Willerby Business Park.

The proposed facility is a smaller version of a scheme that was rejected by councillors three years ago and would comprise a single-storey building to house 12 driving bays, accompanied by a shop, a car park for 17 vehicles and a landscaped area.

The original application was for a two-storey building housing 40 bays and space for 60 cars. This was refused by East Riding Council in February 2007 and a subsequent appeal against the decision by the developers was dismissed by a planning inspector in April 2008.

The facility would bring to five the number of ranges in Hull and the East Riding, others being at Cottingham Golf Club; Burstwick Golf Club; One Stop Golf, in National Avenue, Hull; and Country Golf, in East Carr Road, which borders Sutton Park golf course in East Hull.

But although golfers have welcomed the proposal, the development is opposed by Cottingham and Willerby parish councils, the East Riding Council member for Cottingham North Ros Jump and residents, who have written 23 letters of objection.

Cottingham Parish Council cited noise pollution and the loss of ecological habitat in its objections, while its Willerby counterpart said the scheme would be "inappropriate" to the rural setting and would have an adverse effect on wildlife.

Coun Jump said the revised plans would still dominate the landscape and would remove the sense of peace and dignity at the nearby Haltemprice Crematorium.

Residents raised a host of objections, claiming badly or overhit golf balls would be a danger to the public in Willerby Low Road, that the noise of balls being hit would disturb those living closest to the development, and that the scheme would lead to an increase in traffic on the same road – although this would not have access to the range – and the A164.

They also claim the building would be "ugly" and fear approval of the scheme would set a precedent for further development of the green belt, which is "enjoyed by walkers, horseriders and cyclists for its setting and tranquility".

Others suggest the number of ranges in the area is sufficient and another is "unnecessary and unwanted".

Humber Archaeology said the site was archaeologically important and should be evaluated.

The developers said they had attempted to address the reasons why the original application had been refused.

They said the building would be carefully positioned to minimise intrusion, adding: "The building aims to provide visitors with an enjoyable experience in a visually pleasing environment that promotes appreciation of the surrounding countryside.

"The site is situated between two highly populated residential areas and would serve the local community well."

Some golfers said they would welcome the facility.

Alan Jordan, a member of Springhead Park Golf Club, said: "I would like to see another one, it would be a bit of competition. I think we could do with another one and I don't think the one at National Avenue is an eyesore."

A report to East Riding Council planning committee on Thursday recommends the scheme is rejected, as it would have a "significant adverse effect" on a "sensitive rural location".