Wentworth Club has unveiled details of a carefully created design project which will see the reimagining of Harry Colt’s original Wentworth layout, the East Course, as well as the creation of a state-of-the-art Golf Academy.
Colt’s East layout remains one of the UK’s most highly regarded inland courses. Noted for its intimate setting and vibrant heather that ensure it is visually stunning all year round, the course juts back and forth with its fairways protected by dense and towering woodland, and though short at just 6,200 yards from the back tees, a premium on accuracy means it remains a thorough test for even the very best ball-strikers.
Following research into archived files and information from the industry regarding the East Course’s early existence, a project led by European Golf Design – along with Wentworth Club’s senior management team – will aim to return the par-68 course to its heathland roots, continuing to provide a refreshed and enjoyable challenge for novices and professionals alike.
The project – which is now underway – will be largely based on honouring and restoring Colt’s original design values. Through extensive bunker reshaping and remoulding, a number of the course’s sand traps will be combined. Several of the East’s green complexes and fairways will also be reshaped and redefined, while a woodland management programme will enhance the golf landscape as part of the club’s continued commitment to sustainability.
Showcasing a generational investment in grassroots golf and designed to enhance the overall golf and social offering at the Club, Wentworth’s new golf academy will house three indoor teaching studios, a putting studio, an outdoor short game area and a café with outdoor seating.
Featuring the latest technology for game improvement, the Golf Academy building will be ergonomically designed to present a haven-like space, while the surrounding area will feature nine newly created outdoor hitting bays for a more peaceful range experience.
Created with all golfers in mind, the facility will bring Wentworth’s all-round golf facilities to a whole new level of excellence, providing golfers of all abilities and ages with a clear golfing pathway to progress from novice to elite level.
Further aiding that pathway, the creation of the Wentworth Golf Academy will also see a new Par 3 Course built. The layout will allow the course to be rated under World Handicap System parameters – making it certifiable and ideal for players who are looking to acquire their first handicap, while also serving as a top-class practice course for more advanced players looking to sharpen-up their short games.
Stuart Boyle, Club Manager at Wentworth Club, said: “We are committed to providing a world-class offering for our members, creating a golf and country club experience which is cherished and admired the world over.
“The club is looking firmly to the future, while building on its distinguished heritage, as it strives to create a welcoming and friendly experience which prizes the family dynamic and creates pathways for future generations of golfers.”
“The renovation work on the East Course is a clear sign as we continue to strive to make a classic heathland test even greater while recognising the original roots that have made the layout so iconic. Meanwhile, the development of our new Golf Academy will only enhance the golf offering we have at Wentworth.”