A SECOND golf club near Oxford is set to close.

Magnolia Park Hotel and Golf Club, just off the A40 south of Upper Arncott, has announced it will close on July 31.

It comes just days after the golf course reopened on May 15, having been shut for lockdown.

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The owners said in a statement this week: "Taking account of ongoing Covid19 restrictions, and the long-term repercussions for the hotel business, the owner has confirmed that both the hotel and golf course will then remain closed until further notice and plans will commence for the redevelopment of the hotel and grounds."

They added: "The decision to close the hotel, which changed ownership in July 2019, comes after careful consideration and consultation, including a detailed review of the long-term strategic options for the property.

"Any redevelopment will be respectful and sympathetic to its neighbours and the surrounding countryside.

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"The owner remains committed to the community economy.

"The local community will be kept up to date on any plans and timelines as the redevelopment progresses."

The news comes after plans were revealed to develop a massive lorry park at Waterstock Golf Club just five miles south on the M40 close to Wheatley, although no timetable has been given for that plan yet and the golf club has not announced any plans to close at present.

Oxford Mail:

Locals near Waterstock Golf Club have said the plans are 'abhorrent' because of the impact they would have on the treasured Waterstock meadows nature reserve next door, which is home to many rare and endangered species.

The area was designated as a Local Wildlife Site for Oxfordshire just last year.

Read the full story here.