Setback over club leisure complex

9:59am Monday 30th January 2006

PLANS to build a health and fitness complex in the grounds of Blakes Golf Club, Bobbingworth, have been thrown out by councillors who said the proposed development was poorly designed and in the wrong position.

Speaking against the plans objector David Newland warned the district development committee that the plans centre contradicted Green Belt guidelines and added it would have serious ramifications for local sport centres.

The proposed centre would feature a swimming pool which the golf club would allow local schools to use free of charge.

Blakes co-director and general manager Dominic Eagle urged councillors to support the plans, citing support among local schools, residents and residential homes.

Mr Eagle said: "I believe there are special circumstances that override any concerns and this development will be of benefit to the local community."

Earlier planning officers underlined their opposition to the proposals, regarding them as harmful to the openness of the green belt and to the character of the area, as well as encouraging more traffic to the district.

District council leader John Knapman said: "I was in favour of Holmes Place in Chigwell and would like to see something like this in the area, but although it's a good idea it's in the wrong location."

District council chairman Brian Sandler said: "In principle I'm not against the development but this is poorly designed and it's in the wrong position."