As a continuation of a long-term investment strategy into the club and its facilities, The Drift Golf Club in Surrey has appointed European Golf Design undertake a review of the golf course in preparation for the 50th anniversary in 2025.
The course review follows substantial investment into the Trackman Academy at the Leatherhead-based club which opened in 2022, alongside plans to renovate and expand the clubhouse, the design process for which is well underway.
EGD will review every aspect of the course and make recommendations on improvements which will enhance the enjoyment, challenge and conditions for members and guests. The initial phase of work will focus on holes 5, 6 and 9, with the objective that the changes are made, and the holes back in play, for the anniversary celebrations in two years.
The project will be led by Dave Sampson, whose design credits include Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome, the host venue for this year’s Ryder Cup, who said: “To have the opportunity to build upon the reputation of The Drift is a pleasure. We were thoroughly impressed with the vision and commitment of the club, in particular Jon Connell, the Managing Director, and Tom Parrish, the General Manager, and standards set by the Academy development, which is outstanding. This, combined with the efforts of Course Manager Mark Ogden and his team, who have presented a course that continues to improve in playability and condition year on year in recent times.
“After a recent bunker redevelopment project which has been executed very well, we are excited about the additional potential that is yet to be realised and look forward to a long working relationship with the club.”
Explaining the thinking behind EGD’s appointment, Connell said: “With the investment made into the Academy, we realised that to fully benefit from that further development was required for the main assets of the club – its course and clubhouse. We undertook a process of inviting design groups to present their ideas for the course and were impressed with EGD’s creative and collaborative approach. Having the benefit of their international experience, and their local presence, gave us the confidence to make the appointment.
“As owners we are committed to ensuring the best possible facilities are available for our members and guests, and we look forward to seeing the proposed improvements to the course reveal themselves over the next few years.”
Work on the overall review is under way now, as is more detailed planning for the first phase of work, construction of which is scheduled to begin next month. Frank Lovell, who has been working with the club and the owners for over 10 years, will lead the construction process.
