Tom Hayes, the Labour MP for Bournemouth East, welcomed the news following concerns from residents about proposals to repurpose the site for biodiversity improvements.
He raised the issue with the council after constituents described the golf course as a “valued asset” that supports health, wellbeing, and community activity.
Mr Hayes said: “Many local people were worried about the future of golf at Solent Meads and wanted to keep an important community facility that supports people to stay active and together.
Solent Meads Golf Course (Image: Facebook)
“We raised these concerns directly with BCP Council, and I am pleased that they’re seeking a long-term future for golf at the site and the proposed lease arrangement could help bring investment into local facilities.”
BCP Council has confirmed it will soon begin a formal tender process for the continued provision of golf at Solent Meads.
The successful operator could be offered a lease running until 2051, providing long-term certainty and helping to unlock investment in leisure facilities and the site’s car park.
BCP Council has stated that any future operator will be required to maintain an “accessible and affordable” golf offer for people of all ages and abilities.
The council intends to improve biodiversity across the wider site through additional tree and hedgerow planting, ponds, and other wildlife features.
It says it will work with any future operator to ensure nature recovery and community golf can successfully exist side by side.