A LANDMARK Dorset golf course is closing in March next year, it has been revealed.
Dudsbury golf course, part of the hotel and spa complex of the same name in Ferndown, will cease to be open to golfers from March 31, 2024.
The hotel and spa will remain open.
The announcement was described by one source as “disgraceful”.
“From what I understand, the land the golf course is on is owned by someone else – different to the hotel – and it is leased back,” they said.
“That lease runs out in March and is not going to be renewed.
“I think it’s disgraceful if I’m honest with you.”
It is believed staff at the hotel and spa are unaffected by the decision, with the venue set to undergo a major refurbishment.
The golf course is set in 160 acres of Dorset countryside and was designed by Donald Steel, who provided the master plan for the modern St Andrews.
Measuring 6,904 yards, the par 71 championship golf course has been the venue for many prestigious events, including the PGA Europro Tour as seen on Sky Sports, and the BMW PGA Order of Merit Championship – as well as the EGU McGregor Tournament and England Champion Club.
In 2007, a 10-bay undercover driving range at the course was opened by legendary BBC golf commentator, Peter Alliss.
Your New Stour & Avon has seen an email, believed to have been sent to club members by owner Beate Robinson, detailing the decision.
“The golf course only will be closing from April 1 2024,” it read. “We were recently informed that the lease purchased on the golf course will expire on March 31 2024 and will not be renewed.
“I would like to confirm that the hotel and spa, bistro, events and the guesthouse will operate as normal but will undergo extensive refurbishments and investment and will continue to provide excellent facilities for the local community to use.”
In the email, Beate added: “Over the years Dave and I have always provided excellent value golf on an extremely challenging course.
“Dave Braban’s vision when purchasing the club back in 2006, was always ‘golf for all and not just the few’.
“I feel I have fulfilled his wishes over the past 18 years during some extremely unprecedented times.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my team who have maintained the course and supported the club throughout our time here.
“I would like to also extend my thanks to our members and patrons who have enjoyed the course over the years.”
What is happening to the land New Homes.
So… new homes for this land then, in an already over subscribed road system,doctors and dentists surgeries,such a shame.we would belosing yet another green oasis! I hope the council will see sense and refuse any planning permission…not holding my breath though !