Plans lodged for £12million scheme at Northumberland golf club including new homes, leisure and retail facilities

An outline application has been submitted for a housing, leisure and retail development on the Belford Golf Club site.

The nine hole course would remain with much of the proposed redevelopment around the existing clubhouse.

The scheme comprises 37 new homes - 11 within a walled garden on the north west corner of the site and 12 detached properties and 14 bungalows on and around the driving range field.

There would be a supermarket/farm shop, retail units, a football/multi sports pitch, two tennis courts, an extended clubhouse, improved driving range, bowling green, play park, micro-brewery and holiday lodges.

Golf club owners David and Michael Ratliff say the completed development could create at least 50 jobs and breathe fresh life into the village.

David said: “We are delighted that, after some years assessing needs, benefits and ideas for land use that the final conclusion has been submitted to Northumberland County Council.

“We have designed a scheme providing a raft of facilities never previously provided in Belford.

“The village has suffered a downturn from days when it had 17 shops and pubs.

“Now our plans offer two tennis courts, also available for soccer and basketball, football grass pitch, bowling green, large children’s play area, pitch and putt, new golf driving range and extended clubhouse.This will offer a large sports room for zumba, aerobics, pilates, sauna and hot tub.

“A supermarket with adjoining Country Fayre shop and a microbrewery are planned, as well as eight offices above the supermarket for new businesses with shared facilities.

"The sports activities will be local led and we have active interest in respect of the supermarket, microbrewery and builders.

“At least 50 jobs will be created and we expect to commence all immediately if permission is granted. We are very optimistic.”

He adds that the development team has spent a considerable time addressing potential heritage and environmental issues, such as the nearby Grade I listed Belford Hall.

A planning statement adds: ‘The proposed development provides a well-contained extension to Belford without any detrimental impact on residents, or on the character and appearance of the village and the adjoining landscape.’

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