FENCING has been erected to prevent access to a North-East golf clubas speculation about its future continues.

Workmen were yesterday (Thursday, October 31) securing the grounds of Woodham Golf and Country Club, in Newton Aycliffe, with metal barriers after it appeared efforts to find a buyer had failed.

Last year, owners Washington Developments Ltd received outline planning permission for a 75-bedroom four-star hotel and up to 50 executive homes on part of the site.

At the time, members of Durham County Council's planning committee welcomed the scheme, arguing Hitachi's decision to build high-speed trains in the town would create a need for quality homes and improved golf facilities.

The outline application also included plans for a new clubhouse, which the developers said could attract European golf tournaments. The project was expected to cost about £32m, with money set aside to improve surrounding areas.

But since then, Washington Developments has been unable to raise the cash to allow the project to proceed and in March this year the club was placed under the administration of the accountancy firm KPMG.

Before the business was placed in administration, nearly 30 people were employed and rumours on social networking sites suggest all staff have now been made redundant.

Councillor Barbara Clare, mayor of Newton Aycliffe, said: “I have seen people talking about it on Facebook. It is looking like the rumours are true. It is awful and very sad.

“We have had many occasions held at the golf club, including our silver wedding anniversary. It is such a shame.”

She urged members of the Woodham course to now use the town’s Oakleaf Golf Complex.

Administrators RMT have been appointed to deal with the golf club but no-one was available to comment when contact today.

The Northern Echo was also unable to contact Washington Developments Ltd.