Dibden Golf Centre, undoubtedly one of southern England’s best municipal venues is potentially available to lease. The centre was developed by New Forest District Council who currently still manage it today.
Annual turnover in recent years has consistently been in the order of £900,000 excluding golf retail; and annual golf revenue has consistently been around £600,000 – placing it as one of the best municipal performers in the UK. Annual golf roundage typically exceeds 60,000.
The venue is located close to the M27 and M3 motorways. It is also within the New Forest National Park which has 13 million visits per annum. The course has stunning views of Southampton Water. There are often close up views of the world’s finest ocean going liners as they go in and out of port.
The Council is seeking a potential partner for the management of Dibden Golf Centre. The drive to generate improved financial benefits for tax payers and better value for money has created this wonderful opportunity for a specialist operator to work with the Council in managing a high quality municipal golf centre.
Mark Smith, from golf property specialists Smith Leisure, who is advising the Council on the process comments: “Dibden Golf Centre represents an excellent opportunity for an experienced golf operator to take on a healthy business.
“Importantly, New Forest District Council had the foresight over the years to continue to invest in the property and so it is not now in need of major capital investment. Normally most local authorities have neglected to invest in their venues. At Dibden, a new operator just needs to come in and build on the Council’s past successes.
“New Forest District Council is looking for an operator to take the property on a medium-term lease at an annual rental. Interested parties need to complete a pre-qualification questionnaire regarding the tender process. This must be returned by 26th August 2011. The intention is to have the new operator in place ready for the spring of next year.”
Anyone interested in taking on Dibden Golf Centre can contact Mark Smith on 01985 214147 andmark@smithleisure.com; or John Ashworth on 01799 524475 and john@ashers.demon.co.uk .
Dibden Golf Centre www.newforest.gov.uk/golf