A historic golf club in Sussex is to close on its centenary anniversary after being told it must vacate the course to make way for a major housing development.
Ifield Golf Club has received formal notice from Homes England that it must move from its current site by April 2027, coinciding with its 100th anniversary.
The club’s land forms part of a wider planning application for around 3,000 new homes west of Crawley, which has been submitted to Horsham Borough Council.
Homes England has owned the land since 2020, renewing the club’s lease earlier this year before serving a notice to quit.
The government housing agency said it had been clear for years that the golf course needed to close so that vital infrastructure associated with the development could be delivered.
Member reaction
A spokesman for Ifield Golf Club said members were “deeply saddened” by the decision, describing the club as “an important part of the local sporting scene for generations”.
“This course is more than just a place to play golf, it is a social hub and lifeline for many people in the area,” the spokesman said. “It is heartbreaking for our members to be asked to leave on the occasion of our centenary year.”
Homes England said the extended notice period, which is longer than the six months required by law, was intended to give the club time to plan for the future, including the possibility of relocation.
Although national planning policy does not require direct replacement of the golf course, Homes England has committed to providing alternative sports and leisure facilities.
These include planned investments at Tilgate Golf Course in Crawley and Rookwood Golf Course in Horsham, as well as a new leisure center and swimming pool.
The wider plans also include plans for a new secondary school, new green spaces and additional sports facilities.
Subject to planning permission, the first homes and infrastructure are expected to be delivered in 2029.
Horsham Borough Council will consider the housing proposals later this spring.
