- By Louise Barry & Euan Duncan
- BBC News & Local Democracy Reporting Service
image source, Good pictures
Olympic champion Justin Rose is to advise on a new golf course at Loudon Hoo
Golfing legends Justin Rose and Gary Blair are set to help build a golf course to host the Ryder Cup, the owners of Luton Hoove have said.
A luxury Bedfordshire hotel wants to host an international golf tournament in 2031 or 2035.
On Wednesday, its proposal to build a championship-level course was approved by local councillors.
Their decision is subject to ministerial approval as the site is in the green zone.
image source, Aurora Group
Surinder Arora said hosting the Ryder Cup would „put Luton and Bedfordshire on the map”.
Surinder Arora, chairman of applicant Arora Group, said: „Talking about a legacy, I’ve convinced golf Gary Player and Justin Rose’s grandfather.”
He told the Central Bedfordshire planning meeting: „It’s amazing to have them. They’ve agreed to work together to create something really special for us.”
The 87-year-old South African was a nine-time major winner when Rose, 42, won the US Open and Olympic gold in 2016.
image source, Good pictures
Gary Blair played in 46 Open Golf Championships
The Ryder Cup is a biennial golf tournament between Europe and the United States, with the continents taking turns hosting it.
In September, it will be played at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome.
Luton Hoo currently has an 18-hole golf course but wants to replace it with a new championship-level course fit to host the tournament.
Annie Brewster, former mayor of St Albans and councilor for Harpenton Village, which borders Loudon Hoo, said: „Effectively 'bringing the Ryder Cup home’ close to its centenary will greatly increase Loudon Hoo’s very competitive chance of winning its bid. It has absolutely no chance on its current course. .”
image source, Aurora Group
Historic England protested the plans and questioned the „public benefits”.
Even if Luton Hoo lost its host bid, councilors said the proposed improvements would still „attract significant competition” and make the hotel a „much more attractive destination”.
Plans include remodeling and expanding the existing golf course and building a new clubhouse and office.
However, objections were raised by Historic England, Bedfordshire Gardens Trust and The Garden Trust.
image source, Good pictures
The Aurora Group acquired the estate, which includes a five-star hotel and golf course, in 2021.
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