Golf course could close to make way for new park and homes
Brandhall Golf Course in Oldbury could be closed and turned into a public park under plans by the borough council.
Bosses say the course, which has 318 members, has declined in popularity in recent years and is costing too much to keep open.
Sandwell Council is proposing to close the course in order to create a park - but also wants to put homes and rebuild Causeway Green Primary School on part of the site.
A consultation is set to be launched, while residents living nearby are due to receive letters outlining the proposals.
The authority said running the golf course costs more than £250,000 a year and that more than £3 million would need to be pumped in to bring it up to standard for the future. Of the 318 current members, 193 live outside Sandwell.
Council leader Yvonne Davies said: “Brandhall Golf Course is currently costing council taxpayers in Sandwell a quarter of a million pounds a year – with £157,000 of that subsidising golfers who live outside the borough. It also now needs major investment.
“While no one likes to see facilities close, we have to consider how we invest in the long-term future of the local community.
“We’re keen to hear what people think of the proposal to close the course and what they would like to see in its place if it closes."
