A NEW golf pitch and putt facility, expected to open in a matter of weeks, has been scrapped by Enjoy Leisure.
The East Lothian Courier recently reported that the new facility would be coming to the East Links in North Berwick, delivered by Enjoy Leisure, East Lothian's charitable trust for sport and leisure.
But it has now been confirmed in a letter from the organisation's chief executive to local residents that the pitch and putt will not be going ahead.
In the letter, Bill Axon wrote: "I now write to confirm that, having considered all feedback and reviewing the expansion of the current activity, I have instructed this should no longer proceed and the project has now ceased with immediate effect."
Work on creating the six-hole course, located at the eastern end of the East Links, had already begun.
Previously, Axon said: “We’re looking forward to the development of a new pitch and putt course at East Links.
"This project aims to enhance recreational opportunities and has been designed with the community in mind.
"We plan to host coaching sessions to encourage youngsters not only to play golf, but also to increase their activity levels, which is one of our main commitments.
“The space will remain accessible for the full East Lothian community and visitors to North Berwick.”
A local resident who did not want to be named said: "It's great that Enjoy Leisure has now confirmed that the Common Good land is for everyone and that the proposed pitch and putt won't be going ahead."
Kenny Miller, chair of North Berwick Community Council had already raised his concerns about the plans.
Before the latest announcement, he had said: "Concerns have been raised about the potential loss of amenity space.
"I haven't yet seen the extent of this course, whether it occupies more space than the putting green occupied. This is common land.
"Concerns have also been raised about the safety of this proposal, as there is a public footpath alongside the course.
"Enjoy Leisure say the orientation of the holes means this is safe, but presupposes that every shot played goes exactly where it is intended to go. We know that is unlikely to happen.
"I will be writing to the chief executive of Enjoy Leisure and to East Lothian Council."
