Golf courses sale tees off

Significant interest in the courses is expected

Five public golf courses have been put up for sale by Leeds City Council.

Businesses can obtain the pay and play courses on 75-year leases.

Ben Allen, from Humberts Leisure, the company handling the marketing campaign, said: "This is a fine opportunity to acquire a selection of golf businesses, all of which have great potential for commercialisation and growth."

The courses available are Temple Newsam, Oulton Park, Middleton Park, Gotts Park, and Roundhay Park.

'High interest'

Mr Allen added: "The council has identified a number of key commercial objectives for the businesses, including an obligation to upgrade the facilities and to ensure that each course remains a pay and play venue.

"We anticipate a high level of interest."

The courses can be bought individually or as a package.

A spokesman for Leeds City Council said: "The council has decided to offer the long leasehold interests in its portfolio of golf courses to raise capital for reinvestment in other leisure facilities."

"The freeholds of each property will be retained and, in the interim, the lease for each course will enable the council to exert control over its use."

Expressions of interest are invited by 5th December.