I think I found another golf course designed by Harry Colt. Some doubt that the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club has got a Harry Colt-designed golf course.
Another source says the first nine holes were laid out by Arthur Jackson, the greenkeeper and pro at the Royal Isle of Wight Golf Club at Bembridge. The club has used 3 names since the foundation: Swanage and Studland and the current one (since 1965).
Anyway, Lobb + Partners has been hired to renovate Isle of Purbeck Golf Club‘s golf course.
In 1892, at the time of foundation, the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club‘s golf course was only a 9-hole golf course. The club was owned by famed childrens’ author Enid Blyton. In 1914, it became an 18-hole golf course.
The course was acquired six years ago by Californians David Suruki (a businessman) and Kathy Tatar (an interior designer). They turned the golf club into a very friendly and inclusive one.
Long-term Lobb collaborator David Langheim MG has been hired as the new course consultant. The land at Purbeck is classified as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which limits what can be done in terms of changing the golf course.
One-quarter of the world’s heathland is in Britain and some of the very best in Purbeck.
Tim Lobb says
“The course is very limited in terms of the chemicals it can use, and it is not clear whether fairway irrigation will be permitted. We do not plan to make major changes to the routing, which is very good, but there will be some massaging of playing areas to ensure there is enough width for golfers of all standard to have fun and not lose too many balls. It is a fragile landscape and we want to enhance it.”
The Isle of Purbeck Golf Club – today
The Isle of Purbeck Golf Club has got two golf courses today:
- The Dene Course is a 9 hole course ideal for golfers of all abilities.
- The Purbeck Course (see 1st picture above).
The club also provides
- a driving range and putting greens.
- bar and restaurant + a pro shop in the clubhouse.