The proposed 18-hole pay-and-play course near Shoreham Airport has been given the go-ahead by Adur Council.

Work is expected to begin in March on 120 acres of the 180-acre site acquired by New Monks Farm Developments Ltd and could take between three and five years to complete.

Situated just off the A27 between the airport and Grinstead Lane, South Lancing, the course, designed by Dave Thomas and Associates, will be around 6,800 yards.

The project was originally planned two years ago when details were first submitted to the local authority. A landfill operation will be necessary to raise the level of the ground. Drainage work is expected to alleviate flooding in properties at Manor Close in South Lancing.

Major alterations would have to be made to the road layout near the course including new traffic lights to be funded by the developers.

Another benefit for the local community is the gifting of 37 acres for playing fields. The pitches will be handed over to the council for public use.

Peter Hurrey, spokesman for the developers, said he would welcome suggestions for a name to the course.

"We have been so busy with all the planning and details that we just haven't had time to think about a name. It might be a good idea for a member of the public to come up with one and send it in to the Argus," he said.