Wolfbrook says the acquisition opens the way for residential development that will deliver new low-rise homes in Pegasus.
The announcement last Friday came in a release confirming Wolfbrook had bought the 77 hectare Pegasus Golf Ltd, which was in voluntary liquidation, and would be pursuing rezoning of the property.
Its sale has sparked a torrent of social media debate.
Pegasus Residents' Group Inc is taking stock, seeking advice and putting all information it gains on its website for residents to keep up to date.
Spokesperson for the group Matt James, says, it is early days and “we'll keep a close eye on it”.
“Everyone living in Pegasus, Woodend, Waikuku and Ravenswood will be affected by the sale and the proposal by Wolfbrook to rezone it into high density housing which is what they are known for.
“But as yet we still don’t have all the information and to properly prepare our response we will have to consider all likely outcomes.”
He says the group is gearing up to fight the application for rezoning in the same way the Ohoka community are fighting their own proposed local housing development.
“Wolfbrook’s proposal affects everyone and not just those living around the golf course.
“There is much to consider before the site can be rezoned, the traffic and roading works, the three waters and the fact that the new development nearby on Gressons Rd, with its extra 1500 houses is due to start this year.
"It will have a major impact on the community, with the increase in traffic and huge demands on infrastructure.”
The residents' group has organised a public meeting at the Pegasus Bay School hall on Tuesday, June 2, at 7pm to discuss the proposal and to let people air their concerns.
He reminded residents a section of the golf course was rezoned several years ago when a Golf hotel was planned near the golf club entrance, but otherwise the golf course land is not zoned for residential development.
If the new owners wished to consider development, they would have to go through formal planning application procedures, Mr James said.
Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon has vowed the council will ensure the community’s voice is heard.
He said the land is not zoned for housing, and the Golf Course has its own special purpose zoning under the partially operative District Plan.
Mr Gordon said if the new owner wanted to change its use they would need to apply for a private plan change, or apply as a fast-track proposal.
“It is my understanding there has been no information requests and, or, approaches to the council about any rezoning.’’
“Whichever pathway they pursue, any future plans need to involve hearing feedback and taking on board input from the community including the Pegasus Residents' Group, community board and council.”
Like many who have approached the North Canterbury News, Mr Gordon says he hopes the new owners honour the vision Bob Robertson had for the area.
"It is what attracted many people to Pegasus and what makes it the special place that it is. In my view the golf course and the lake are particular features strongly valued by the community.
“We will definitely make sure that we will be listening to and standing up for residents as the golf course is a very important asset to the community,’’ Mr Gordon said.
He has sought a meeting with the new owner to get a “better understanding” of their intentions.
I will also discuss the interim maintenance of the existing golf course as well as proposals from the community to help look after it.’’
Meanwhile chief executive of Wolfbrook Property Ltd, Guy Randall, says while the golf course itself is no longer financially viable, and will not be reopening in the long term, it is committed to maintaining aspects of the site where feasible — including the impressive water features — so they can continue to be enjoyed by the Pegasus community.”
The goal is to approach the transition from a golf course to housing “thoughtfully and respectfully while helping address ongoing demand for housing across Waimakariri and the greater Christchurch region”, he says.
Wolfbrook also plans to take measures to support golf club members and the wider community during the transition, including allowing the course to remain open free of charge for a short period following settlement day, allowing the use of the clubhouse for a farewell event, and retaining the tennis courts for community use.
Wolfbrook will also keep walking tracks accessible to the public “for as long as it is safe to do so”.
Mr Randall says the community engagement would be a key part of the planning process as Wolfbrook sought to have the property rezoned.
Meanwhile Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey says he was surprised about the proposed redevelopment of the golf course.
"Wolfbrook has taken quite a risk with this purchase as there is no guarantee of rezoning the golf course.
"If Wolfbrook intends to respect the character and lifestyle that makes Pegasus unique, as stated in their PR, they will need to take the community with them.
“I have always said that I am supportive of more development around the Waimakariri as it is fast becoming a desirable place to move to. However, all development needs to be managed carefully and with consideration to community, infrastructure, and need.
“Any new development also needs to happen in the right place, and Waimakariri is not short of suitable areas for residential growth.”
