BCP consultants previously identified the three sites as having potential to generate Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) units – credits which are sold to developers to offset the impact of developments.
East Southbourne and Tuckton councillor Bernadette Nanovo said, after hearing about the scheme, “it soon became apparent that the golf was at risk”.
“Our opposing voices were soon backed up by the Hengistbury Head residents’ association and 8,000-plus people who signed the petition,” she said.
Summing up, environment councillor Andy Hadley said: “The views were based on a misunderstanding – we hadn’t made a decision and golf was always part of the consideration.
“We are looking to improve the biodiversity and, quite separately, we need to look at re-procuring the leisure opportunity on that site.”