Last updated with a new title on 28 November 2025
Solent Meads Golf Course by Les Hull
BCP Cabinet is considering recommendations for the future creation of a mechanism to support nature recovery. One potential impact is at Solent Meads, the FAQ’s below provide more information.
What do these proposals mean for the golf course?
The current lease at the golf course expires in November 2026 – in line with procurement law we cannot simply ‘roll-over’ that lease and we would have to go through a full tendering process if it was decided to retain the golf facility.
All options are on the table for the future of the site – including a continued golf provision – but in line with our legal requirements we are using this as a natural opportunity to assess those options.
There will be no housing or other built development on the land and we are engaging with local residents to understand what they want from the site moving forwards.
Area of land at Solent Meads being proposed for Biodiversity Net Gain (excluding car parks)
What will happen to the land?
That’s what this current process is about – we are looking at all options for the future of the land, in collaboration with the surrounding community.
These plans are about a combined 59 hectares of land across three sites, of which the golf course is a small portion; the broader plans are about bringing greenspaces back into wider community use. What we are proposing is looking at ways in which can ensure as many people as possible have access to high-quality greenspaces – as well as supporting nature recovery and species to thrive in their natural surroundings.
Does the golf club have to close?
No, the current lease expires in November 2026: we are exploring all options before then – including a continued golf provision at the site. A decision will be made after speaking to the community.
Will the land be used for housing?
No – whatever happens, the land will remain an open space for public use.
What does this mean for nature?
Our three towns have incredible natural greenspaces but nature recovery across the UK, and within BCP, is in decline. We have a legal requirement to find opportunities that support nature recovery. We are proposing a more joined-up approach with an aspiration of creating a National Nature Reserve around and across Christchurch Harbour which prioritises nature recovery and people’s access to nature.
What is Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)?
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a national planning policy that requires development projects to result in a measurable improvement in biodiversity, leaving the natural environment in a better state than it was before. At least a 10% net gain is mandated under the Environment Act 2021 in England. This can be achieved by enhancing habitats on-site or creating new habitats off-site, or a combination of both.
As landowners, BCP Council has the option to manage their land in ways that enhance its value for nature, making it more supportive of wildlife generating BNG units. These units can then be sold to developers who require offsite compensation for their development.
Can we have our say on the future of the land?
Yes, a full roadmap will be published and discussed by councillors and we will then be arranging in-person engagement sessions in the spring so that as many residents as possible are able to have their say.
How can I find out more about what is being proposed?
More information about the three sites being discussed – Erlin Farm, Millhams Mead, and Solent Meads can be found at: Plans to revitalise community green spaces to be discussed by councillors | BCP
Supporting nature and providing access for people in a sustainable manner
Nature rich meadows
Sculpture trails
Conservation information
Natural grassland
Benches & accessible footpaths
Meadow management (autumn cut)
Conservation grazing
