Drivers honk as protesters line the roadside, holding signs that plead, "Beep if you want to save our green spaces" and "We need homes too!" The demonstration, organized by Protect Enderby and Narborough Green Spaces, opposes a plan to build up to 800 homes partly on Enderby Golf Course in Leicestershire.
This local protest was part of a nationwide day of action Saturday, with organizers claiming around 170 groups participated across the UK, highlighting concerns over losing green spaces to development.
For Chris D'Araujo, who manages the nine-hole course, its loss would be deeply felt. "It's only a small course, which is why many love it—perfect for beginners or retirees who don't want a long, hilly private course," he says. "It serves a vital community purpose."
Blaby District Council says the proposed development, including the golf course, could help meet its obligation to deliver 654 new homes annually through 2042. The council argues it offers a chance to create a "sustainable community" with public green space and "much-needed affordable housing."
The UK hosts about a quarter of Europe's golf courses, while the government pushes for 1.5 million new homes in England over five years. Golf courses occupy roughly 2% of England's land—similar to the area used for domestic buildings.
Gavin Anderson of England Golf says planning proposals involving golf course land have risen sharply in the last two to three years, as councils seek space for housing. Meanwhile, Custodian Golf reports nearly 20% of clubs are financially at risk, which could push them to sell land.
This backdrop fuels a fierce debate: Are golf courses ideal for housing, or are they an easy target?
Golf's reputation as an exclusive sport persists, but demographics are shifting. At Enderby, before COVID-19, the average golfer was around 60; now many players are in their 20s or younger. The municipal course charges £12 for a weekend nine-hole round, making it accessible compared to private clubs with fees ranging from £200 to £3,870 annually.
Anderson insists golf is becoming more inclusive, with total English club membership rising from 730,602 in 2024 to 750,071 in 2025, and junior membership up 34%. Yet housing need is acute. Ant Breach of Centre for Cities says too few homes are built, keeping prices "exceptionally expensive."
Ben Cooper of the Fabian Housing Centre argues golf courses often waste land. "With many in temporary accommodation, using vast acres for golf instead of building homes is the wrong priority," he says.
Architect Russell Curtis notes Greater London's 90-plus golf courses cover 17% of its green space—an area the size of Brent borough. "These could be converted for many uses, not just housing," he says.
The debate intensifies as the government's new "grey belt" policy allows some green belt land to be reclassified for development if housing targets can't be met. This, many argue, makes golf courses a "soft target."
As communities fight to preserve their local greens, the question remains: fairway or driveway?