DALMILLING golfers are concerned at the council’s proposal to close the course to build social housing and a playpark.

It was confirmed the idea would be taken forward and a planning application will be submitted following public consultation with residents and golfers.

Derek Gemmell of Dalmilling Golf Club believes the council feel they have to close the course because there are no facilities for visitors and anyone can use the site for free after 5pm.

Mr Gemmell explained: “There are no facilities for visitors and the locker room have been padlocked for the last three years. Golfers cannot shower as there is no shower head.

“Anybody can play any of south Ayrshire courses for free after 5pm as they close their pro shops and it’s a free for all.

“The club members decorated the committee room free of charge to South Ayrshire Council providing paint and wall panelling.

“They have also permitted season ticket holders to cancel their tickets at any given time and join up again when the summer kicks in.

“This is why it shows very little play at this time as season tickets are cancelled. The council have never put any work into Dalmilling as they are putting all their resources into the other course like Belleisle and Troon

“There are more than five clubs which play out of Dalmilling so where are they going to fit these golfers in. It is plain to see why Dalmilling has been neglected over the years as these councillors have no regard for the people of Dalmilling.”

Following the announcement that there are plans being discussed to close Ayr Dalmilling golf course and replace it with housing and a public park, there are fears Maybole golf course may be forced to close too.

Alisdair Malcolm said: “The threatened closure of two of South Ayrshire’s eight municipal courses would be a huge blow to golf in the area.

"It would affect many of the member clubs of The Association attached to the two courses, and indeed those clubs attached to the other six courses who would no doubt suffer a knock on affect from an increased number of players chasing tee times at peak periods.