A MAJOR redevelopment of a golf club near Overton to secure its future has been unveiled as a plans have been submitted.

Leisure Links International Ltd has submitted plans to overhaul Test Valley Golf Club after a number of issues were identified by the new owners, including an ‘uninspiring driving range layout’, no special teaching facilities and insufficient parking, to name just a few.

The application to Hampshire County Council is seeking outline planning permission for eight lodges to allow visitors to stay overnight which is hoped will “truly complete the club into a sustainable hospitality venue”.

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The owners are also asking for full planning permission to demolish the existing practice facility and erect a replacement state-of-the-art practice facility building comprising associated office, store, shop (with reception), toilets, storage for equipment and golf carts, along with two teaching rooms and 12 practice bays.

It also hoped that upgrades will be made to the existing access, parking and course improvements will be made, as well as drainage improvements.

The application states: “Test Valley Golf Club is a charming venue located in rural Hampshire, which has the potential to become one of the best Downland courses, were it not for some design faults committed in its original design and the under investment it has suffered from the beginning. The facilities need updating, the course needs to make more of its natural environment and the contours of its surrounding landscapes, and it needs to alter the most glaring of the mistakes.

“The combination of the above issues have regrettably made the club fall behind its local competitors, jeopardising its longevity and stability. The new owners have taken it upon themselves to make a number of changes as detailed in full within this Hybrid planning application to ensure the legacy of the club can be enjoyed by future generations.”

Last year, two community engagement events were held with club members and members of public - some of whom were members who live in the locality.

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The applicant deemed that following the events it was their view that the “majority of local residents are unconcerned by the proposals and are overwhelmingly in favour of supporting the improvement and enhancement of the facility.”

A community liaison group is expected to be set up to provide an information forum between the club and local residents.

If approved, it is anticipated the development as a whole will be completed within three years from commencement of construction.

To view the application and comment, go to planning.hants.gov.uk and search HCC/2021/0762.

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