Having recently heard and read that BANES Council are currently holding a feasibility study into possibly closing down Entry Hill Golf Course due to declining numbers and redeveloping the grounds for other sport and leisure activities, I would like to comment on this matter.
Elizabeth Hallam’s recent speech at the Guildhall conveyed the exact sentiments of most Entry Hill users in that it is Council/Leisure Operator mismanagement that has brought about its decline.
Indeed, if they spent some time investing and promoting Entry Hill, informing people, not only in Bath but the surrounding districts of it’s existence then I’m sure many more people would participate.
I believe that many people don’t even know a pay and play golf course exists in Bath?
I have recently seen private golf clubs’ promoting their memberships, why is this? It is costly, no wonder numbers are down in these clubs, many people simply cannot afford these overpriced memberships and would rather play affordable golf at a pay and play course, BANES and it’s leisure operators have constantly missed an opportunity to attract these players!
Now’s the time for BANES to hand over the management of this course. Having heard that someone is willing to take over the reins and run Entry Hill Golf Course, I truly hope this is the case as I’m sure with determination and drive Entry Hill can become a great attraction again as an affordable venue to play some great golf in the hands of the right operator with a sound business plan!
Elizabeth’s impassioned speech was outstanding and I only hope that it hits home to the relevant committee that this is an asset not just for the few but for the whole community to enjoy, also to respect and preserve the existing trees, flora and fauna that makes Entry Hill a pleasure to visit and play.
Hopefully the BANES Committee will see sense and provide someone else with the opportunity to kickstart and prove that Entry Hill has great potential and an even better future in the right hands.
Chris Champion
Peasedown St John
