CONCERNS have been raised about the impact the closure of a popular hotel will have on local junior squash players.

Last month it was revealed the South Marston Hotel could be knocked down to make way for housing after the owners submitted a planning application.

Having lost more than £1 million in recent years, it has been decided the destination is no longer a viable business.

As well as the hotel, there are also a number of sporting facilities which are used by the community and is the home of Wiltshire Junior Squash, which is now facing an uncertain future.

There are currently four squash courts which are used by 150 youngsters on a weekly basis for training sessions and competitions.

The hotel also hosts a number of school programmes, which is set to grow as the sport becomes more popular and has been home to the South Marston Squash Club for almost 50 years.

Dax Meller, of the Wiltshire Squash and Rackets Association, has written to object to the proposal as he is concerned for the sport’s future in the region.

He said: “The closure of this facility would significantly impact on that plan and have a devastating effect on the Wiltshire Junior programme.

“The County juniors would essentially be faced with the ridiculous scenario of having to move their operation outside Wiltshire, most likely Winchester or shutting down the programme all together.

“Closing down this facility will clearly impact on the local community but the purpose of this objection is to highlight the ripple effect the closure will have on the entire Squash community who deserve to have a facility which is fit for purpose and one that compares equally with those offered within every other County across the Country.”

The recent closure of the Next Generation facility, as well as a lack of facilities elsewhere, has seen demand for the squash increase.

Due to this popularity, Dax says the courts at South Marston were able to be refurbished.

“Squash participation is increasing in Wiltshire and across the Country,” he said.

“A recent report undertaken by WSRA highlighted that there was no other venue within Wiltshire that could match the South Marston facilities.

“Within the last year the courts have undergone a full refurbishment programme.  The money used to pay for this upgrade was generated solely from Squash revenue, clearly showing its sustainability.”

The planning application is requesting the demolition of the hotel to be replaced with 72 homes.

However, dozens objections have been submitted from people who are against the proposal. The application can be viewed by visiting the council’s planning portal and searching for S/OUT/15/1985.