Golf At Goodwood has confirmed plans to install a state-of-the-art Toro irrigation system on its Downs Course in what is being described as a ‘transformational’ investment for the club.
The £1.75 million project, which has now been formally approved and ordered, will replace the existing irrigation network at the Sussex downland venue with the latest Toro technology.
Work is due to begin in mid-October and is expected to take three to four months to complete, with specialist contractors MJ Abbott delivering the installation. To minimise disruption, work will be carried out on a hole-by-hole basis, with 18 holes expected to be in play throughout the project.
At the heart of the irrigation upgrade is a new holding tank, which will increase water storage capacity by 160% compared with the existing system. The new set up will provide targeted irrigation for greens, tees, aprons, and approaches up to 60 yards from each green. Although fairways are not included initially due to estate-wide water availability, the system has been designed with future expansion in mind should resources allow.
Gary Beves, General Manager of Golf At Goodwood, said: “This is a genuinely transformational project for Golf At Goodwood. Not only will irrigation coverage be dramatically improved, but the 500 hours currently spent repairing the old system each year can now be reinvested into enhancing presentation standards and overall course conditioning. This ensures members will enjoy the very best playing conditions throughout the season.”