Councilors said concerns over the closure of the golf course and subsequent rescue operations were based on “misunderstandings”.
Thousands of people have signed a petition to save South Ben Solent Meads after Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP) said it was reviewing the future of the area.
At a meeting on Wednesday, cabinet members approved a biodiversity plan for council-owned land at Erlin Farm, Millhams Mead and Solent Meads – excluding the golf course.
As part of the same vote, councilors also agreed that “natural improvements” should form part of a retender for the golf course lease, which expires in November 2026.
Solent Meads has been leased and operated by Golf for All for 22 years.
Director Matthew Steward, who launched the petition, told the meeting: “When we were informed in November that Solent Meads would no longer be playing golf, we were outraged on behalf of the people who use the facility.
“I’m delighted that, thanks to strong opposition from residents and representation from our local councillors, golf is now back on the table.”
‘Improvements to nature’ to be part of retender for golf facilities [Des Blenkinsopp / Geograph]
BCP consultants previously believed the three sites had the potential to generate Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) units, which are points sold to developers to offset the impact of development.
South East Ben and Tuckerton councilor Bernadette Nanovo said it “quickly became clear golf was in jeopardy” after hearing about the plans.
“Our opposition was quickly supported by the Hengistbury Head Residents Association and more than 8,000 people who signed the petition,” she said.
Environment commissioner Andy Hadley concluded: “These views are based on misunderstandings – we have not made a decision yet and golf will always be part of the considerations.
“We are looking to improve biodiversity and, furthermore, we need to look at regaining recreational opportunities at the site.”
