Solent Meads Golf Centre located in Southbourne currently run by Golf for All Limited, which has held the lease since 2003.

The course itself was established earlier, opening in 1961.

The current operator holds the lease which will be ending in November 2026.

A petition has been started ‘Stop BCP From Closing Solent Meads Golf Course’ urging the place should stay open and remain a golf course, whether Golf for all Limited are the future custodian or it happens to be another golf operator taking over the reins.

The petition also says, “This is not just a petition to save Solent Meads Golf Course, but a petition to save golf in Bournemouth.”

Among those backing the petition is James Edney, a resident from Southbourne who is a frequent visitor and lover of golf has been visiting the place for five years.

Solent Meads Golf Course (Image: Facebook)

James Edney (Image: Submitted)

James, 32, said it’s not just a place to play golf but a place which fosters social interactions, combating loneliness and promotes both physical and mental wellbeing.

He said the golf course is perfect for beginners and professionals’ players.

He said: “I think it’s important for the whole area not just even not just Southbourne really because like I said people that come from Highcliffe, they come from all over to play that specific course because you don’t have a course the same as that anywhere in Bournemouth.”

James said the location of Solent Meads Golf Centre is perfect and beautiful with a view of Hengistbury head.

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He added: “It shouldn’t be removed. Its just about saving the golf course and place which has so much history. I think it will be a massive loss to the whole of BCP really.”

The petition has garnered over 3,500 signatures.

In response, BCP council has said they are engaging with residents directly to create a new vision for what can be achieved at Solent Meads and understand how they want to see it used going forward.

Cllr Richard Herrett, portfolio holder for destination, leisure and commercial operations at BCP Council, said: “This will allow us to ensure more people have access to the stunning natural surroundings and all the benefits of an open, inclusive greenspace.  

 “Open spaces play a vital role in the health and wellbeing to our residents: and we need to balance historic use with making them accessible to communities. The end of a lease for the golf course provides a natural opportunity to do this. 

Cllr Richard further added:  “There are a number of popular golf courses within the conurbation with good capacity, and the team are proactively working on alternative options for members of the golf club.”