More than 100 objections have been filed against a controversial plan to build 105 homes on part of Stand Golf Course in Whitefield, Bury. Residents have described the proposal as 'catastrophic', warning of 'terrible impacts' on the local area.
What the Plan Involves
The scheme, submitted by Stand Golf Club and Westshield Ltd, would demolish the existing clubhouse and rebuild it on the opposite side of the course. On the cleared land, 45 houses and 60 retirement apartments would be constructed. The new clubhouse would feature a shop, indoor swing rooms, a members lounge, bar, kitchen, and terraces, along with a separate suite for weddings, events, and community bookings.
The developers say the work is needed to 'secure the long term viable and sustainable future of Stand Golf Club', as the current clubhouse is in 'declining' condition and income is suffering because clubs and community groups are unwilling to use it. The plan also includes regenerating the Old Standians sports ground, which is currently 'disused and in poor condition' after changing facilities were destroyed in a fire.
Objections and Concerns
A total of 101 objections have been lodged with Trafford Council, alongside a handful of supportive comments. Residents have raised concerns about traffic congestion, road safety, loss of green belt land, wildlife habitat destruction, noise and light pollution, and inadequate parking. The development would include 89 parking spaces, with access off Ashbourne Grove and four houses accessed via West View Grove.
One objector said: 'I totally object to this proposal. This area is quiet, residential homes, a project of this size will completely change the area and have a terrible impact... There are already significant traffic issues in this area. The area is green belt with a huge impact on the local wildlife and trees... The design of the project is not sensitive to the local area, it's cheap, ugly and over developed.'
Another added: 'This is green belt land with a huge amount of wildlife including bats, hedgehogs, deer and a wealth of different birds. They are proposing cutting down established trees for what? All for a golf club house with better shower facilities. The effect on the local residents with noise, traffic, pollution and road safety will be catastrophic.'
Political Opposition
Local Reform councillor Shadman Zaman has also registered his objection, stating he is 'deeply concerned' the plan would 'result in significant and harmful impacts upon the surrounding residential area, local infrastructure, environmental character and wider community amenity'. He noted that the locality already experiences 'substantial peak-time congestion, school-related traffic pressures and parking difficulties' and that the development would 'materially worsen existing infrastructure pressures'. He added: 'Many residents feel the proposal would fundamentally and permanently alter the nature of what has historically been a quieter and more open residential environment.'
Support for the Scheme
Despite the opposition, some residents have voiced support. One commenter said the proposal would bring a 'much needed boost to the local economy', creating construction jobs and jobs at the golf club, and addressing the need for housing in the area. They added: 'We need to start looking after our community and young (and old) unemployed and these jobs will be a lifeline. Housing will ease burden on council housing.'
A second supporter, a Ringley Road resident of 20 years, said: 'My family are delighted and 100pc behind this application... It would be a disaster if the club closed, and I dread to think what would happen to the area then.' They also noted that relocating the clubhouse to Ringley Road would ease parking issues on Ashbourne Grove at weekends.
Next Steps
The application is currently under consideration by Trafford Council, with a decision expected in the coming months. The developers argue that the housing is necessary to fund the new clubhouse and secure the golf club's future.
