Developers want to build 278 homes at the closed Gatley Golf Club
A controversial plan to build nearly 300 homes on a former golf course looks set to go ahead despite having been turned down by local planners.
The bid by Hollins Strategic Land (HSL) for the scheme in Gatley, Stockport was knocked back in 2021.
But the government’s planning inspector has now overturned the decision.
Liberal Democrat Stockport Council leader Mark Hunter told BBC Radio Manchester the inspector’s judgement was “disappointing”.
‘Affordable housing’
The authority rejected HSL’s planning application because the project would have meant a loss of open green space.
More than 1,600 people signed a petition to save the land from development.
The planning inspectorate, which held a six-day inquiry last year, said building on the 1912-founded golf course would have “several benefits”.
Half the homes in the scheme are set to be designated as affordable housing, and the developer has also promised to give money to local sports facilities and green spaces.
The clubhouse would be converted into a “community hub” under the plans, which also include 26 acres of space that can be used by the public.
HSL director Paul O’Shea said: “The positive decision now presents a real opportunity to create a thriving, balanced neighbourhood incorporating a range of community facilities for local people.”
Family connections
A recent government report revealed the borough had built only half the homes it needed to between 2020 and 2023 and had one of the worst rates of housebuilding in the country.
Council leader Roberts said: “The Labour government has tied councils’ hands behind their backs with their developers’ charter to concrete over our green spaces, and this is another very sad example of it.
“I fear this is the start of many such applications where local people and their local council are ignored by national government to serve Labour’s agenda.”
Gatley resident Sharon Lindsay added: “Although it’s a private club, they [Gatley residents] feel it has many links to the community that go back to the early days of the club, with generations of family connections.
“We have a lot of affection and love for the club.”
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has been contacted for comment.