Campaign launched to save Nelson's Marsden Park golf course from development and turn it into a nature reserve
A community campaign has been launched to protect the former Marsden Park Golf Course in Nelson, amid fears the site could eventually be sold for housing development.
The course had been mothballed last year by Pendle Borough Council for 12 months, prompting residents to push for an alternative long-term vision for the land.
Campaigners, including resident Claire Kelly, are urging the council to consider transforming the site into a nature reserve, highlighting its scenic landscape and panoramic views across Pendle. They say the area is already becoming a haven for wildlife, with nature reclaiming the overgrown course since its closure.
Claire, who has launched a petition, said: “Marsden Park Golf Course holds a special place in the hearts of many local residents, including myself, my family and friends. For years, we've enjoyed its lush green spaces, whether through playing golf, taking leisurely strolls, or walking our dogs.
“The golf course isn't just a recreational spot; it's a thriving habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. Losing it to development would not only obliterate a beloved community space but also devastate local biodiversity.
“The looming threat of it being sold to developers for housing is very real. However, there are numerous brownfield sites across the area that are better suited for development. Prioritizing these areas over our valuable greenspaces is crucial to maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring that our community doesn’t lose its cherished natural heritage.
“Allowing the golf course to grow wild and converting it into a nature reserve can provide a sanctuary for local wildlife, promote biodiversity, and offer an educational and recreational haven for current and future generations. This transformation would turn Marsden Park Golf Course into an invaluable asset that enhances the quality of life for everyone in our community.
“Brownfield land in the area should be prioritised for housing instead of building on valuable green spaces. I hope we can protect the site for future generations.”
Marsden Park Golf Course has been managed by Pendle Leisure Trust in partnership with Reevolution Golf Ltd since 2016. However, Reevolution Golf Ltd ceased operating the course last year when responsibility for the site returned to Pendle Leisure Trust, which runs facilities on behalf of the council. Despite discussions with alternative operators, no new provider has come forward to take on the course.
A spokesperson for the trust at the time said rising costs – including increases to the national living wage and national insurance – combined with reduced financial support, made it unviable to continue running the course without a significant subsidy from the council.
Facing wider financial pressures, Pendle Borough Council agreed at its full budget meeting on February 27th last year to mothball the course for 12 months. The temporary closure is intended to allow time for all future options for the site to be explored.
The council has allocated £15,000 to cover essential costs such as utilities, insurance, maintenance and security during the closure period.
Both the council and Pendle Leisure Trust say they will work together to determine the best long-term future for the site.
Campaign organisers believe the site presents a unique opportunity to create a protected natural space, rather than risk losing it to development.
They are now calling on residents to support their efforts.