More changes planned as golf club renovations swing forward

Fresh plans for the continuing redevelopment of Rotherham’s The Grange golf club could see part of the course remodelled and the creation of a storage pond and lake.

The club, at Kimberworth, has been the subject of a series of planning applications, including the remodelling of the club house, creation of padel courts and conversion of buildings to provide new on-side accommodation for guests.

Now Rotherham Council is being asked to approve plans which would see the eighth fairway and tees remodelled, along with the creation of a storage pond and ornamental lake.

Under the scheme, new planting would take place, with native species of trees and shrubs, alongside the creation of wetland and grassland.

The work proposed is extensive enough to need new materials to be brought onto the site, which would be carried by tipper lorries.

Part of the purpose of the scheme is to allow for rainwater harvesting, which would mean less reliance on using mains water for irrigation.

The club, off Upper Wortley Road, was originally council-operated but was later sold off.It has had mixed fortunes in the intervening years, though now is the subject of a major programme of renovation.

Planning documents state it is used by locals, and those from a wider area, and provides “valuable employment opportunities through needing clubhouse/catering staff, golf course maintenance staff and local goods.”

“As a business, the new owner is improving the standing and profitability of this golf business continually (following a period of decline and under-investment) which the proposals, put forward in this application, will continue to improve by offering a much improved and attractive leisure facility.

“Improved profitability means greater tax revenue locally and nationally and more jobs.”

Proposed changes to the course are seen as an important safety measure because at present balls from players on that fairway have the potential to land on a public footpath and drive which forms the main access to the club.

The new plan would reduce the risk of ‘ball strikes’ documents state, by taking golfers away from the footpath, but also a “very exciting” hole, to improve the course’s attractiveness to players.