After the growth of golf in the 1980s and early 1990s, demand has stabilised. Demand at Council courses has shown a small overall reduction as a result of an increase in the local supply of 'pay and play' provision. Demand at Meyrick Park, following investment by the operating contractor Clubhaus, has remained relatively stable, whereas usage at Queens Park (18 holes) and Solent Meads (18 hole - Par 3) has declined by about 3-5% over the past five years. Additional competition in the 'pay and play' sector includes recent major new provision in Christchurch at Iford offering an 18 hole course, 9 hole - Par 3 and a covered floodlit 60 bay driving range together with full changing and social facilities, which became operational in Summer 2001.

The Council reviewed its golf provision at Meyrick Park, Queens Park and Solent Meads in January 2001 and decided to retain the 3 courses with development briefs issued for the Queens Park and Solent Meads sites in an endeavour to secure private sector investment. A contract was let in June 2003 for the Solent Meads site. No suitable contractor came forward for Queen's Park and the course will continue to be operated directly by the Council in the short-term with the situation to be reviewed in 2005. At Solent Meads the Pitch & Putt provision is being relocated within the existing area of the Par 3 Golf Course. The existing Pitch & Putt site, where significant archaeology was recently found, will be returned to open space in association with the 'Field Studies/Visitor Centre' proposals for Hengistbury Head.

Meyrick Park and Queens Park golf courses are important sites for nature conservation and they should be protected as far as possible through appropriate management and maintenance in order to reflect this importance. (See Paper 2 - 2.5 - Environmental Protection and Management.)

Local provision currently includes the Council's facility at Solent Meads, and private sector provision at Hurn and the major new facility at Iford as referenced above. The Council's facility at Solent Meads is modest with only 10 uncovered, unlit bays. Improvements comparable with the site's green belt designation are proposed by the recently appointed contractor.

"The Council recognises the popularity of golf for residents and visitors to Bournemouth and the surrounding area and the value of its Meyrick Park and Queens Park courses - as important wildlife habitats. The Council will continue to maintain its existing golf provision to a high standard."

OBJECTIVES

E.1 To ensure that high standards of green keeping and facility provision are offered at the Council's golf sites.

E.2 To review the provision of Golf within Bournemouth and its surrounding conurbation on a regular basis.