NEW plans for a residential development on Helensburgh Golf Club’s existing course have been submitted to council officers.
The golf club, Cala Management Ltd and Dunbritton Housing association have submitted a proposal of application notice for a residential development for 145 homes.
The planned development includes affordable housing, along with the demolition of the existing clubhouse with a new facility built elsewhere.
A refreshed 18-hole golf course also forms part of the plans, which Argyll and Bute Council is expected to issue an opinion on by late June. No decision will be made on whether to award planning permission until a full application is made.
No design and access or planning statement has been published with the notice as yet, but the public can view a location plan and some documents in the council’s online portal.
A public consultation event has already taken place at the golf club on Thursday, May 14, with a second scheduled for Thursday, June 18, at the same venue from 3pm to 7pm.
Taylor Wimpey and the golf club had previously sought permission from the council for over 300 homes on part of the golf club’s land, including an affordable element. However, that application was withdrawn in August 2024.
Last month, Gillian Hessett, land manager at Cala Homes (West): “This proposal reflects a carefully considered and collaborative approach, working in partnership to deliver high-quality homes and modernised amenities including a new clubhouse for Helensburgh Golf Club.
“By combining private and affordable housing with meaningful investment in cherished community assets, we believe this represents a positive and unique opportunity for Helensburgh, and we look forward to continuing to engage with partners and local stakeholders as the plans progress.”
At the same time, a spokesperson for Helensburgh Golf Club said: “We are incredibly proud of our heritage and the role the club has played in the Helensburgh community for generations, and we remain deeply committed to our members and the experience we offer today.
“However, we also recognise the importance of taking a long-term, strategic view to ensure the club continues to thrive in the future.
“This partnership represents a meaningful opportunity to secure the investment needed to modernise our facilities, strengthen our offering and create a more inclusive and accessible club for the wider community.
“If progressed, it would give us real confidence in our future, allowing us to build on our proud legacy while ensuring Helensburgh Golf Club remains a vibrant and sustainable community asset for years to come.”
To view the plans, visit the council’s planning portal at argyll-bute.gov.uk and use the reference number 26/00856/PAN.
