The Castle Course, the seventh course at the Home of Golf, is rapidly taking shape ahead of its opening next summer.
The scenic cliff top course is expected to become a popular addition to the St Andrews Links courses which include the world renowned Old Course.
The entire course has now been seeded, the greens and tees are complete and the areas of rough and natural habitats between fairways are growing in well. Preparation work on the fairways, including adding sand to create a links-like feel to the turf, is underway and will continue throughout the winter months.
The superstructure of the new clubhouse has been erected and a gleaming copper roof has been installed on the circular building which offers spectacular views of Kinkell Point, where the Castle Course’s double ninth and 18th green sits, and out over St Andrews Bay.
The clubhouse will house a restaurant, shop and full changing facilities as well as a caddie service, reception area and offices. The unique design by Leven-based architect Fraser Smart will feature a huge glass window overlooking the point and the bay. It has been designed and situated in such a way as to prevent it being visible above the horizon from the town.
Alan McGregor, general manager of the Links Trust, said he was very pleased with the progress being made. “Substantial progress has been made at The Castle Course over the summer and it looks very impressive. A great deal of work is going in to the preparation of the course and our head greenkeeper Allan Paterson and his team are doing an excellent job.
“The clubhouse is also taking shape and should prove to be a striking building. It has been designed to make the most of the wonderful view of St Andrews and out to sea. I am sure it will prove to be a wonderful facility for both local and visiting golfers.”
The Castle Course has been designed by David McLay Kidd, a Scot who has gained worldwide renown for his work on courses such as Bandon Dunes in Oregon, Nanea in Hawaii and Queenwood in Surrey.
The public course, which covers 220 acres, will officially open for play on 28th June next year. Bookings are now being taken and a limited number of times are available online at www.standrews.org.uk. Each hole will feature five tees to cater for all levels of ability. The par 71 layout will range in length from 5,600 to 7,200 yards.