If you’re considering the top three expectations golfers have from your golf club’s courses, you’re in the right place if you focus on the following:
- Greens roll smoothly,
- Golf course design,
- The golf course is visually appealing.
It is commendable that the club has acknowledged the effects of the increasing frequency of wetter winters on playing conditions.
The Buckinghamshire (since 1992) is now adding more than 100,000 linear metres of piped and secondary drainage, and looking to increase its water capture capabilities.
The upgrade of piped drainage will encompass over 20,000 linear meters, complemented by an enhancement of 91,000 linear meters of secondary drainage.
This initiative will improve water capture capabilities, thereby contributing to increased sustainability.
Another significant progress in this £3 million (approximately $4 million) course investment project is the comprehensive renovation of all 68 riveted bunkers.
As part of the bunker renovation:
- The club changed the sand with 750 tonnes of new China clay sand. China clay helps regulate moisture in the sand mix, improving workability and durability. The mixture typically involves China clay (kaolin) blended with silica sand.
- Longer fescue grasses replaced by native rye caps around bunker edges.
The golf course, designed by John Jacobs, is undergoing an exciting enhancement with the addition of a new championship tee for the par-three finishing hole, which runs alongside the River Colne.
Plans are also in place for a comprehensive upgrade of the practice range to further improve the facilities.
The Arora Group owners are making a significant investment following a £10 million renovation of the historic 17th-century clubhouse, which was completed in 2024.
This revitalized space now features seven luxurious bedroom suites, catering to the needs of both London-based and international members.
One more change. The club has made an exciting enhancement by transforming the area around the first tee into a compact warm-up putting green.
This improvement provides a dedicated space for four-ball groups to practice their putting before teeing off, thereby enhancing the overall golf experience for players.