Neville Hotels, one of Ireland’s foremost hotel operators, has brought in 54 to manage operations and agronomy services at Druids Glen and the new course at Curracloe Links which is due to open in 2026.
The global sports and entertainment agency, which announced a strategic investment in leading golf course development company Turfgrass in December, has also been recruited to provide advisory services and strategy ahead of the Curracloe Links grand opening.
Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort in County Wicklow opened in 1995 and has hosted the Irish Open on four occasions as well as the Seve Trophy in 2002. Originally designed by Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock, the layout earned the nickname the ‘Augusta of Europe’.
Neville Hotels, which is part of Neville Group – one of the leading construction companies in Ireland – invested more than €10 million to upgrade the golf course with Peter McEvoy, and build a new clubhouse before reopening in 2023.
Curracloe Links, in neighbouring County Wexford, is being designed by American architects Dana Fry and Jason Straka. The 6,600-yard, par-70 layout will be a part of the new Ravenport Resort, a luxury hotel with 50 rooms, lodges, a spa and leisure club.
Seamus Neville, Director at William Neville, said: “Druids Glen stands proud as one of the most iconic and stunning courses in Europe and working with 54 and the team at Turfgrass will ensure things run smoothly and align with our ambitious plans.
“Curracloe Links promises to be another standout design in a breathtaking location and it is strategically important that such a key launch will be executed with partners of the experience of 54.”
Francisco de Lancastre David, 54’s Executive Director of Operations, said: “This is a terrific new engagement for 54, showing off the full spectrum of the expertise and experience we can bring to two courses at very different stages of their journey. Druids Glen is a venue with a fantastic reputation and we’re looking to ensure our support keeps the course right at the top of people’s wishlist.
“We have provided strategic launch advice for a number of amazing courses across Europe and Curracloe Links promises to be an incredible asset for Irish golf.”
Turfgrass founder John Clarkin said: “As a former Irish Open venue, Druids Glen holds a special place in the hearts of golf enthusiasts. Our team is dedicated to maintaining its agronomic excellence, ensuring it reclaims its position among Ireland’s premier golfing destinations. We look forward to seeing Druids Glen return to its former glory and welcoming golfers from around the world once again.
“Meanwhile, Curracloe Links is a modern, one-of-a-kind links course poised to become a must-play destination that seamlessly blends innovative design with Ireland’s timeless coastal beauty. As we undertake the management agronomy contract, our focus will be on expertly guiding the course through its grow-in phase to deliver outstanding playability, sustainability, and a truly unforgettable golfing experience.”
Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort and Curracloe Links join 54’s growing stable of clients in the Irish Republic which includes Adare Manor, venue for the 2027 Ryder Cup.