Royal Birkdale golf club expansion plans run into opposition
The planning application was submitted by R&A Championships Limited which organises 21 tournaments – including next year's Open.Constructing a new practice tee would involve landscaping work, erecting fences and the diversion of a public right of way track.The report from Labour-run Sefton Council stated the development "complies with local and national policies and is recommended for approval".However, the residents' petition highlighted that Birkdale Common was "a well-used public park", and stressed the need for public access to be maintained.
'Fair and transparent'
Sefton's Liberal Democrats called the plans "controversial", with the planning process "limiting opportunities for discussion".Opposition leader John Pugh said: "We certainly don't know why the promoters of the British Open Championship are insisting on a practice ground in Southport appreciably longer than the one provided for the Open at Portrush this year."It is difficult to understand why the practice tee at Royal Birkdale isn't good enough and only suitable for hospitality tents. Consultation dates and details have changed and the fencing is a real issue."Sefton Council's planning committee chairman Tom Spring insisted the planning process had been "completely fair and transparent."
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