Anger rises over golf course cut

UPPER Beaconsfield residents are angry that locals have had no say in plans to downsize Beaconhills Country Golf Club.
McArthur Road neighbour Graham Jolly said that the golf club was close to the whole community and residents were disappointed that they could not have a say.
Mr Jolly said he was worried that plans to downsize the club might lead to a drop in property value, and was angry that residents were not consulted before the plans go to the vote next week.
“They are not trying to look at other avenues in conjunction with property owners,” Mr Jolly said.
The club has held membersonly meetings in the leadup to next Tuesday’s vote, which will determine whether plans for the reduction will go ahead.
The plans to reduce the golf club include selling the portion of the land that borders McArthur Road, which would create three saleable blocks.
Already one member has walked off the board because of the proposal, but the club refused to talk to the Gazette until the votes are counted next week.
The Gazette reported last week that membership numbers and green fees had dropped from 1999 to 2005.
A resident and club member who did not wish to me named said that as a member of the community he was disappointed about the golf course proposal, but there was still a chance that nothing would happen.
“I don’t think the club have done their homework,” he said.
“But at the end of the day we don’t want the club to go down the gurgler.”