A controversial plan for the development of a golf complex in Swindon, which was withdrawn from the agenda of the borough council’s planning committee at the last moment in October, might finally be decided next week.

Members of the committee will be debating, and voting on, the proposals put forward by the owners of Broome Manor Golf Complex.

Twigmarket Ltd want to build a new three-storey driving range, eight all-weather football pitches, more parking to serve the new pitches and to add an adventure golf course, move the existing petanque court and put in a high ropes course.

Councillors have been recommended to grant planning permission.

Twigmarket says its plans are essential to diversify what it offers to customers and is essential for the long-term viability of the complex.

But the plans, which include building over three of the nine holes, have upset many of the golfers who use the complex.

In its application Twigmarket said: “The proposals will significantly improve the facilities offered by the golf course, diversifying the revenue streams and cross-subsidising the golf business, which is in structural decline across the UK, and helping to make it a sustainable leisure and sporting hub for the area.” 

It added that should the plans not be approved the future of the golf complex remains “uncertain” and that the decline in popularity of golf could mean that the sport ceases on the site and some “alternative viable uses” may be sought.

But scores of neighbours and users of the complex disagreed and wrote to planners to object to the plans. Their argument is that the nine-hole course is of particular value to beginners or golfers who may not have the game or the physical ability to enjoy a full 18-hole round, and removing it would be bad for the sport and those who love it in Swindon.

That argument was also made by South Swindon MP Sir Robert Buckland.

One reason for the delay in deciding the proposal was the wish for Sport England to have its say. The quango said it supported the plan: “Golf England are encouraged to see that they are committed to engaging with the club and its members to work towards finding an agreeable solution to retain the current nine-hole provision.”

The committee will meet at 6pm on Tuesday, December 13 at the Civic Offices in Euclid Street.