PLANS for a Foot Golf site in the heart of Harlow Town Park are set to go before the Harlow Council planning committee.

The course will be on the former pitch and putt course which was once very popular but that not been in use since the eighties.

There have been a number of objections by local residents.

Objections

• Activity will cause constant noise and disturbance close to rear gardens of properties in Arbour Mews; facility too close to these houses, kiosk only metres away; harm to peace and privacy, health and well-being, quality of life.
• Litter and anti-social behaviour would occur; no management measures included to address this; no sanitary facilities provided, will result in urinating in hedges;
• Must be a more suitable location, footgolf normally associated with 18 hole golf courses not suitable for a park location;
• Not a neglected area as stated, beautiful green space used for informal recreation including walking, running, play, picnics, fresh air;
• Pitch and putt course been obsolete for 30 years and operated at a time when the houses in Arbour Mews did not exist, this area was Council depot land at that time; scheme should be considered in that light not simply seen as re-opening an existing facility; no greenways or holes exist contrary to statements;
• Object to suggestion that proposal would enhance the heritage of Grade II protected landscaped park;
• Car parking will increase on narrow School Lane; access to Arbour Mews will be blocked by illegal parking;
• Concern at light pollution if site is to be lit.

Support

Nine comments of support on the following grounds:

Great idea; fantastic idea; welcome facility; town lacks great outdoor activities like this and could be used by families; would attract people to the town, would be a boost/ good for Harlow; would result in more income for local businesses such as shops and restaurants.

The meeting will take place at Harlow Council offices on Wednesday June 7th at 7.30pm.