CLOSE House are hoping to erect a new golf driving range building to enable them to coach more youngsters in the area.

The golf club, at Heddon-on-the-Wall, has applied to Northumberland County Council for planning permission to erect the building, as well as extend the existing car park area, within their current driving range setting.

They hope to add 16 new car parking spaces, taking the total to 42.

According to the plans submitted, the roof of the new steel-framed monopitch building would be clad with 80mm core composite panels in a juniper green colour, while the sides of the building will be clad using natural colour timber overlap boarding.

Close House's state-of-the-art Golf Academy opened in 2010 and is the North East's only PGA Academy.

Their five full-time PGA coaches offer free coaching to over 1000 school children per year and host schools festivals.

According to a design and access statement submitted on behalf of the Close House Estate/Golf Club, current limited availability, due to lack of space, is restricting junior and group coaching classes.

The statement said: "The increase in space will help Close House to grow and promote the game of golf within the local community and so continue the legacy of the 2017 & 2020 British Masters."

For more details, visit the county council's planning portal and search reference number 22/00599/FUL