CONTROVERSIAL plans to sell the site of a church tennis court in Hoylake for redevelopment have been withdrawn by the applicant.

St Luke's Methodist Church wanted to sell the land in Charles Road, to make way for the building of 17 houses and apartments.

It had planned to use proceeds from the sale for community projects including a free school uniforms scheme.

The church said 'ever-increasing financial pressure' and dwindling membership of the club were behind the decision to sell.

The application was submitted to Wirral council for consideration, but withdrawn on November 4.

The plans prompted objections from tennis club users. 

Its secretary, Anne Cross, told the Globe at the time: "As a member of the club I don't want the sale to happen. It's been rumbling on for quite a while.

"But because we don't own the land, it seems there's nothing we can do to stop it being sold.

"The club has been there since 1948. It has 30 members and we are making the most of it while we can.

"There are a few local clubs that have said they would be happy to take us in."

Another campaigner, who asked not to named, added: "I find it amazing that we have our first tennis champion in 70 years, Andy Murray, and they are talking about closing tennis clubs."

The decision to sell the land was made a meeting of the church's Trustees. The proposed new development will include affordable housing.

Also among those objecting to the scheme was Hoylake Conservative councillor John Hale.

He said: "I think it's a small site for the number of flats they want to put on it. I also think the flats will be out of keeping with the rest of the area.

"I'm worried about the access points and the effect increased traffic will have on the area if the development is approved."

The Globe has contacted the church and is waiting for its response.