Driving range extension at The Hertsmere, Elstree, Borehamwood

What was proposed

The application proposed extending the driving range, changing land levels, reconfiguring three golf holes and adding landscaping, without new buildings.

“The application proposes for “the extension to the existing driving range area with associated change in levels to north, east and west of the driving range and re-configuration of 12 th , 16 th and 17 th holes with associated landscaping”.”

“The driving range length is proposed to be increased from 256 yards to 301 yards to improve the operation of the driving range, as well as minimising the risk of wayward shots from the range into the golf course.”

Officer report

The site and its history

The site is an existing golf course in the Green Belt, with earlier permissions for clubhouse, driving range, parking, water recycling and range improvements.

“The application site is located to the eastern side of Watling Street. The site is currently in use as a golf course, known as The Hertsmere, which comprises of an 18-hole golf course, a driving range and a single storey building. The wider site includes a clubhouse building with an associated car parking, and a variety of ancillary buildings used for storage and green keeping.”

“Reference number Description Date and outcome TP/08/1822 Demolition of existing and construction of new two storey clubhouse. Part demolition and refurbishment of existing driving range and erection of new bin store.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the proposal would preserve Green Belt openness and its sporting and economic benefits would outweigh limited harm.

“The application site is located within the Green Belt. However, the proposal would not be inappropriate as it would provide outdoor sports provision whilst minimising the impact on the openness of the Green Belt and resulting in no significant conflict with the Green Belt purposes.”

“Having regard to the above, Officers conclude that the limited harm arising from the loss of trees and short-term landscape impacts is clearly outweighed by the benefits of the proposal, including the enhancement of an established sporting and recreational facility and the economic benefits associated with supporting business growth. Consequently, it is recommended that planning permission is granted for the proposed development.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The agent spoke in support of the application.

Members’ view

Members were satisfied with the proposal and supported the officer recommendations.

“Members were satisfied with the proposal.”

“It was proposed by: Councillor L Silver, seconded by Councillor B Rosehill that the recommendations as set out in the report be agreed.”

Minutes

The committee vote

All 13 votes supported the proposal, with no votes against and no abstentions.

“For: (13 total) – Councillors L Silver, M Handley, A Kaza, P Morris, G Briski, C Gray, H Green, D Lambert, M Allen, N Susman, B Rosehill, L Smith, M Amron. Against: (0 total) – No votes. Abstain: (0 total) – No votes. Total votes cast: 13”

Minutes

The decision

Approval was delegated subject to conditions and completion of a suitably worded section 106 planning agreement.

“RESOLVED that the application be Delegated to the Head of Planning & Economic Development to grant planning permission subject to the following conditions and following the completion of a suitably worded section 106 Planning Agreement.”

Minutes