A historic Sussex golf club is set to close during its centenary year after being told it must vacate its course to make way for a major housing development.
Ifield Golf Club has been formally notified by Homes England that it must leave its current site by April 2027, just as it marks 100 years since it was founded.
The club’s land forms part of a wider planning application for around 3,000 new homes west of Crawley, submitted to Horsham District Council.
Homes England, which has owned the land since 2020, renewed the club’s lease earlier this year before issuing the notice to quit.
The government housing agency said it had been clear for several years that the golf course would need to close to enable the delivery of essential infrastructure linked to the development.
MEMBERS REACTION
A spokesperson for Ifield Golf Club said members were “deeply saddened” by the decision and described the club as “a vital part of the local sporting community for generations”.
“This course is more than just a place to play golf – it’s a social hub and a lifeline for many people in the area,” the spokesperson said. “To be asked to leave in our centenary year is heartbreaking for our members.”
Homes England said the extended notice period, which is longer than the legally required six months, is intended to give the club time to plan for its future, including the possibility of relocating.
Although national planning policy does not require a direct replacement for the golf course, Homes England has committed to providing alternative sport and leisure facilities.
These include planned investment in Tilgate Golf Course in Crawley and Rookwood Golf Course in Horsham, along with a new leisure centre and swimming pool.
The wider scheme also includes plans for a new secondary school, new green spaces and additional sports facilities.
If planning permission is granted, the first homes and infrastructure are expected to be delivered by 2029.
Horsham District Council is due to consider the housing proposals later this spring.
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