Plans for championship golf course in Bolton to host the Ryder Cup REJECTED by councillors

Bolton Council has rejected plans to build a luxury golf course to host the Ryder Cup and more than 1,000 houses on the Hulton park estate.

The planned golf course was one of just two venues short-listed to host one of golf’s biggest event, the Ryder Cup, in 2031.

Any development on the site could have only gone ahead if the golf tournament bid was successful.

As well as the golf course, developers Peel wished the Hulton Park development to include 1,036 homes, a primary school, short stay holiday accommodation, a hotel, conference centre and a village hall.

Developers Peel had a similar application previously approved in 2018 which was later rubber stamped by the central government but have revised the plans, saying the new proposals have less impact on the green belt.

Dozens of objections were received by the council, many expressing concern at the loss of green belt land and traffic and road issues.

The leader of Bolton council Martyn Cox urged the committee to reject the plans.

He said: “‘This is an extraordinary development and on the other hand the campaigners against are committed and moderate.”

Coun Cox said Peel have made ‘big strides’ with regard to public engagement but is disappointed that the impact on green space is ‘too impactful’.

He added: “I ask the committee to oppose these plans.”

Committee member Coun Nick Peel said there had been no corporate backing to host the Ryder Cup from Bolton Council and Coun Cox’s comments backed up that position.

Objector Phil Wood addressed the committee.

He, said: “This proposal can only take effect with a Ryder Cup held there in 2031 or 2035.

“It could only ever host one, Peel would then dig it up and build more houses, it’s a lame duck golf course, a housing project in