Cowdray Park Golf Club in West Sussex has committed to investing over £1 million on a course improvement plan that will include a complete bunker redesign and renovation programme, new pathways and the design of a new par-3 Academy Course.
This is one of the most significant investments in the history of the Midhurst-based club, which first opened in 1904, and follows a successful period where the club has produced growth in each of the past five years. As with many other golf clubs, Cowdray benefitted from the increased demand for play during and immediately after the pandemic. For the past three years membership has been full and there is currently a waiting list for potential new members to join.
Experienced golf course architect William Swan from Swan Golf Designs, which has an outstanding pedigree of specialising in downland venues, will be working in partnership with contractors Profusion Environmental on the project, with the latter company having been responsible for many high-profile projects in recent years. Cowdray Course Manager Jonathan Smith and his team will be working alongside Profusion on a day-to-day basis.
Cowdray Park Director of Golf Tim Allen, who has been planning the project, said: “The course has noticeably improved year on year, however we accept that the three major areas in the plan are not up to the standards of the rest of the course. We are so fortunate to have the support of Lord Cowdray and the project will not only elevate the level of playing experience and facilities we offer, but also improve maintenance practices and playability for the future.”
An important aspect of the project is the landscape in which Cowdray is situated. Allen added: “We are fortunate to sit in the beautiful South Downs and from a design point, Will [Swan] is keen to ensure that the renovations are sympathetic to the wider landscape as we always strive to protect and enhance the area around us. He also has been instrumental in acknowledging and complimenting the original design from the renowned Tom Simpson. Throughout the process, we also have worked closely with the South Downs National Park Authority to ensure full compliance in planning requirements.”
One area Allen is very keen to enhance is the par-3 Academy course. He said: “The area is perfect for a short course, however it needs to be playable year-round, like our 18-hole course. To have a short course option is vital to encourage new golfers to the game, along with enhancing the overall facilities we have to offer to all of members and visitors.”
The work is scheduled to start in this autumn with completion by early spring next year.
