Golf, amenities & green space

Denne Hill and the surrounding countryside has been an important green space since medieval times.

It’s a thriving green space break between Horsham and Southwater, which local people enjoy physically as well as visually.

The new sports facilities and a housing development would dramatically change the character of the footpaths along some of the most popular walking routes in south Horsham.

Horsham’s 18-hole course has a wide appeal because it is the most affordable, interesting and challenging course in the area. The woodland setting of the 18-hole course is one of its key attractions. With the choice for golfers around Horsham dwindling, losing another 18 holes is not on.

Green space for all

The developer plans to concrete over acres of countryside, destroying the natural green buffer between Southwater and Horsham and leaving the area vulnerable to future housing developments.

The footpath through the golf course is used by ramblers, dog walkers and joggers who appreciate the calm woodland paths.

They don’t want to walk through a housing development and sports facilities and across service roads.

18 holes not 800 homes!

Most golfers want to play 18 holes not nine.

A longer course provides more technical challenge, interest and exercise.

Many golfers play just as much for the social engagement as the game and don’t want to whizz around a nine-hole course.

It is simply not true to claim that golfers are too “time constrained” to play 18 holes.

With an ageing population, earlier retirement and a trend towards flexible and home working, golfers are choosing to play more and for longer.

Horsham Golf Club states that the proposal will ensure the sustainability of the game locally. This would be at the expense of the members who want to continue to play on a full course as they would have to pay higher membership and course fees elsewhere; spend time and money on travelling further; or play on a less interesting course.

Horsham Golf Club has a busy programme of competitions played over 18 holes.

These are valued sporting and social events. A nine-hole competition is just not the same.

Golf is on the rise

An ageing population is one reason why demand for golf is increasing. It’s great for fitness and social connection. This helps with both mental and physical health and thereby helping to alleviate pressure on the NHS.

National planning policy requires that any lost sporting amenity that is deemed surplus to requirements must be replaced by an equivalent or better one. A nine-hole course is neither.