Donegal Golf Club members have approved the completion of a comprehensive renovation programme to be carried out on the Murvagh Links by McGinley Golf Course Design.
The Master Plan was formally presented to members at the club’s AGM on December 12 by principal designer Paul McGinley and project co-ordinator Joe Bedford.
During an in-depth 90-minute presentation, every aspect of the Links experience was explored, with a clear and consistent vision established that preserved the traditional classic links experience while incorporating modern practices.
Two phases of work have already been completed. Phase One, delivered in 2023, included the redevelopment of the 16th, 17th, and 18th holes. Phase Two followed in 2024 and focused on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th holes, further enhancing the Links while respecting its natural setting and design heritage.
The approved Master Plan outlines a series of future enhancements, including the construction of a new 6th green on a site originally proposed by the course’s original designer, Eddie Hackett, and the creation of a newly sculpted par-5 8th hole that fully embraces its dune landscape setting. Proposals also include a re-orientation of the latter part of the 10th hole, with a new green complex positioned to the right and carefully integrated into the existing links.
Phase Three of the programme of works, which begin in January, will include the construction of new back tees, the redevelopment of the par-3 13th hole, and the refurbishment of ten bunkers.
In developing the scope of the Master Plan, McGinley Golf Course Design undertook an in‑depth study of the design history of the Links at Murvagh from its opening in 1971. “The past doesn’t limit us – it informs us,” said McGinley. “There’s so much to learn from how Eddie Hackett and Pat Ruddy originally shaped these courses, both strategically and stylistically, and from the contributions made sense of the routing. We will honour that.
“We’re very conscious – as our the members – that we’re only temporary custodians. Everything we do is about respecting the past, improving it where we can, and making sure that the course is considered among the very best of links courses that our country has to offer. Our overriding mission is that both members and visitors enjoy a fair, challenging course in the most magnificent of landscapes ”
Club chairman John Neary said: “We are delighted to announce that the final phases of course development by McGinley Golf Course Design were approved by our members last week at Donegal Golf Club. The membership has shown strong support for Paul McGinley’s design philosophy, which honours Eddie Hackett’s original vision while incorporating modern standards of execution made possible by today’s resources and techniques.
“This approach is clearly reflected in the proposed changes to the 6th hole — a concept originally identified by Hackett himself, but one he was unable to fully realise at the time, armed only with a Massey 135 and a link box!”
Neary added: “Members and guests can look forward to a consistent and cohesive design experience from the 1st tee through to the back of the 18th green. We are excited to support Paul and his team as they bring this project to life across our truly special landscape.”
To watch a video of the digital rendition of 11 of the hole flyovers that form part of the Master Plan, click here.