RENOVATING & REMODELLING NEW COURSES
Since the days of Tom Morris golf courses have had to adapt to change, never more so than in response to today’s ever – changing technology. Modern equipment and vastly improved specifications have altered the nature of golf, making many old courses less challenging and with greater technological improvements to club and ball,, sometimes less safe.
Original bunkers have become redundant ,greens no longer drain properly, tees are inadequate and many courses cannot withstand the all year play that members expect. There are a number of complex issues that need to be addressed by any club looking to update and modernise their course.
Image: West Hove G.C. – hole 5
The historical context of the course , is it a Vardon, Colt, Braid, McKenzie or Alison course and what impact should their work have on any improvements.
The impact and suitability of a modern versus traditional architectural approach upon the course
The balance of styles
Safety issues relating to sensitive boundaries
The specification and sizing of greens and tees
The positioning and design of existing features
The future maintenance of the course
Many older golf clubs are seeking to upgrade and modernise their courses. At the same time most members enjoy and appreciate the old fashioned style and features of their course.
It is often the merging of the old style of design with the characteristics of the modern game that ensures a sympathetic renovation that will see the golf course successfully through its’ next evolution.
Image: Northenden Green, hole 15
