A LOCAL campaign group is calling for people to encourage the Scottish Government to uphold East Dunbartonshire Council’s refusal to allow expansion of Bearsden Golf Club.

The golf course is near the historic Antonine Wall and this has caused concern locally, although the club says it has worked extensively to ensure the UN-protected Roman fortifications are unaffected.

The course alterations are linked to proposals from Robertson Homes, which is looking to build 67 properties at Thorn Road. These proposals are to be considered by the council’s planning committee today (Tuesday) and are also controversial, having attracted hundreds of objections.

The club appealed this refusal and the matter is now being considered by a Scottish Government reporter.

Alan Brown of campaign group Bearsdone and Milngone, said: “We are urging concerned parties to lodge comments with the Reporter by September 30 or at your earliest convenience thereafter.

“We need the Reporter to uphold the council’s decision and let them know how strongly the community oppose this proposed development.”

This can be done by emailing case officer mandy.mccomiskie@scot.gov.uk, and the group also requests people copy them in at bearsdone@hotmail.com to assist with tracking numbers.

Bearsden Golf Club treasurer Gordon Thomson said: “Bearsden Golf Club has appealed against the decision of East Dunbartonshire Council to reject its planning application for an extended golf course. A formal appeal has been lodged and the process is now running. The Planning Officer recommended approval of the planning application subject to conditions.

“A lot of work was put into agreeing an acceptable course design and  Historic Environment Scotland is satisfied that the Antonine Wall is protected.

“The reasons given for refusal by the council are not supported by any technical evidence or any professional opinion.”