The developer of a planned £2 million golf course in Birkenshaw is to appeal after Kirklees Council refused permission.

And planning consultant Phil Coote hit out at Kirklees Council for refusing the course - on land at Upper Sunny Bank Farm in Whitehall Road East - on the grounds the design didn't work with the contours of the land.

"The reason for refusal said our proposal involved significant alterations to the levels of topography across the site," said Mr Coote.

"But our moundings are small and in contrast to the fencing and lighting approved for the 20-bay driving range, are insignificant.

"I am happy to appeal against the decision because these are unreasonable grounds for refusal."

Mr Coote, planning consultant for Joe Romani, who owns the farm and land, said he had written to the council to see if there was any scope for amending the original plan, but had not yet received a reply.

He said they would continue landscaping the site and plant trees over the winter, but soon the weather would not be good enough to move earth about.

He added the appeal would not go to a public inquiry but an inspector would visit the site and make a decision.