Walsall’s only municipal golf course faces a stay of execution as council chiefs are looking to keep it running and improve facilities.

The future of Grange Golf Course was thrown into doubt earlier this year.

It was expected to close next month if a private company could not be found to take over it.

But Walsall Council is now looking at how it can continue to run the course in-house, at least until the start of next year where new outside management could be sought.

A business plan is being drawn up to assess how bosses can keep the nine-hole Arboretum Extension green open and overturn the £36,000 annual outlay.

Offering improved facilities such as refreshment areas and a driving range will be considered.

Council leader Mike Bird said: “We are looking to see if there is a way we can fund the golf course and turn it around to break-even.

“We are looking at ways of reducing losses and how to increase income.”

Leisure chief councillor Barry Sanders added: “Every effort is being made to keep the golf course open and find a long-term solution, that is the clear message.”

Scores of people have joined a campaign and signed a petition against plans to close the nine-hole golf course.

It attracts around 13,000 visitors a year.