Locals to have their say on Belair Golf Course future

Thousands of people have had their say on the future of the old Belair Golf Course and Country Club, with suggestions ranging from accommodation to a permanent outdoor cinema.

More than 2200 people responded to the State Government’s community consultation on the site, which has sat vacant since January.

But the results effectively killed any chance of golf returning to the course, with only 11 per cent of respondents believing that was the best use of the site.

A restaurant or cafe, camping for large groups, space for arts and music events and an extension of Belair Caravan Park were all suggested during the consultation.

People also called for the function centre to be used as an art gallery, Kaurna cultural centre or a sporting and education hub.

Environment Minister David Speirs said the community felt “strongly” about Belair National Park and they wanted to retain the golf course land for recreation.

About 80 per cent of respondents to the consultation said Belair National Park was personally important to them.

Two thirds visited the park at least once a month and a third visited every week.

Waite state Liberal MP Sam Duluk said the majority of people wanted to “keep access affordable and to keep the area family friendly”.

“And nearly a third of respondents wanted improved playgrounds and nature-play areas, and better parking, as well as more toilets, barbecue and picnic areas and rubbish bins,” Mr Duluk said.

The survey results would be used as part an expression-of-interest process for businesses wanting to use part or all of the 50ha space.

The Belair Park Country Club and golf course fell into administration in January with its owners having debts in excess of $2.1 million.

Administrator Clifton Hall handed the keys to the course back to the government in March – ending 36 years of private operation.

The course was originally constructed as nine holes in 1934, following a decision by the State Government to “raise additional income for the maintenance and further development of the (national) park”, according to the Belair Park Golf Club website.

The course was extended to 18 holes in 1941.

Expressions of interest were expected to open late next month.

Source: The Advertiser