Yesterday evening (May 13), the UK Government clarified the COVID-19 restrictions regarding golf retail and golf coaching in England.
The UK Government has released updated documentation, which includes a section titled ‘Businesses and Venues’. It stipulates that, “All retail, other than those exempt, must close their premises to members of the public. However, staff may be present to make deliveries or provide services in response to orders such as those through telephone, online, or mail”.
As the list of exemptions does not currently include golf retail, these premises must remain closed, except for ‘Click and Collect’ services.
Essential access to a building, such as a professional shop, for clubs which operate a booking system to regulate tee times and take payment, is permissible provided appropriate social distancing precautionary measures are put in place.
Full details of the guidance for providers of outdoor facilities on the phased return of sport and recreation can be found here.
The UK Government has also confirmed that one-to-one coaching is permissible under strict infection control measures, observing social distancing and must take place outside.
In order to comply with this regulation, it is recommended that PGA Professionals complete a comprehensive risk assessment and refer to the coaching guidelines on the PGA COVID-19 resource hub.
A statement from England Golf said: “We continue to pursue clarification of the COVID-19 restrictions with regards to driving ranges and custom-fitting across the UK. We will update you as further clarifications become available. In the meantime, our advice remains unchanged: where there is any room for doubt the safest option should be pursued.”