Residents in Clare object to unusual 'FootGolf' course

The development of Clare’s first FootGolf course has been met with stiff opposition from the residents of Hurler’s Cross, who say that the development will have a negative impact “on every aspect of the lives” of local people.

FootGolf is exactly what it sounds like — golf played with a football instead of golf ball and with players using their feet instead of clubs.

The game is relatively new but it has become increasingly popular in Ireland over the past 12 months.

Plans to convert agricultural land at Clonmoney West in Hurlers Cross into a FootGolf course were given the green light by Clare County Council last month.

Planning for the project, which has been put forward by John Callinan, has now been appealed to An Bord Pleanála.

Objectors say that the course will have a severe, negative impact on the village — which is located in the heartland of Clare hurling between Sixmilebridge and Shannon.

The Irish FootGolf Association currently lists 10 official FootGolf courses and one Pitch and Foot course in Ireland, mostly in the Dublin area.

Three separate objections were made against the original planning with Clare County Council, with an objection in the name of Henry Gerber, Norma Gerber, Bob Potter, Catherine Potter and Theresa Tuohy being used to appeal the case to An Bord Pleanála.

In their submission lodged with Clare County Council, the group claims that properties in the area would experience rapid negative equity if the proposed FootGolf course is allowed to go ahead.

The plans for the course include the development of course itself, as well as a portable building office, toilet facility and parking.