Ian Struthers, a member of Largs Golf Club, has written to sportscotland ‘on behalf of the community’ to raise concerns and request a delay in the process.
In his letter, Mr Struthers said: “I am writing on behalf of members of the local community to express our deep concern regarding the recent announcement of the permanent closure of the golf practice facility.
“As one of the highest-quality golf practice venues in the west of Scotland, this facility has served as an invaluable asset for local professional golfers, residents, aspiring golfers, schools, and community groups.”
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He said the decision appeared to have been made without any form of public consultation or opportunity for stakeholders to propose alternative solutions.
Mr Struthers said: “We believe strongly that the facility still has significant potential and that options for a community-led or partnership-based model should be explored before any irreversible steps are taken.”
He has requested a pause in the closure to allow for a transparent consultation process and the sharing of financial information about the facility’s operating costs.
The community would also like the opportunity to explore options such as a community takeover, co-management model, or external funding that could keep the facility open.
Mr Struthers added: “We hope you will engage constructively with the community to find a solution that preserves this important asset.”
He said he hoped his move would provide some constructive feedback.
Speaking to the News, he said: “My correspondence was simply an initial request seeking clarity on the reasons behind the proposed closure of the golf practice facility.
“At this stage, I have not explored, nor am I currently aware of, any alternative opportunities or proposals that may exist to retain the facility.
“My intention was hopefully a rallying call to highlight possible solutions and get some kind of response. Also an attempt to ask for some basic information and understanding around the decision-making process before any further steps or discussions could take place.”
A spokesperson for Inverclyde Sports Centre said: “Sportscotland acknowledges the concerns raised by some members of the local golfing community regarding the decision to close the golf training facility at the sportscotland National Training Centre in Largs.
“This decision was not taken lightly and was the result of a thorough evaluation of the facility’s usage, financial sustainability, rising costs, and alignment with the centre’s core mission to provide a venue for residential sports training that benefits a wide range of sports across Scotland.
“The course itself, which was originally designed to support residential activity at the centre, has significant limitations on how it can be used and developed given its proximity to the school and residential areas.
“We understand the disappointment this may cause to the individual golf facility members, but by focusing our resources where they deliver the greatest impact, we can ensure the sustainability of the national centre and continue to engage the Scottish population from all backgrounds in sports and outdoor activity, providing opportunities and experiences that might not otherwise be available.”
