New Rules for Course Usage Winter 2025/26
Effective from Monday, 17 November
As we approach the winter season, it becomes increasingly important to implement protective measures that help preserve the quality and playability of our golf courses.
Wet and cold conditions decrease growth and accelerate wear and tear, particularly in high-traffic areas. Without proactive management, this can lead to long-term damage that affects both aesthetics and recovery as the season resumes in 2026.
To ensure the course remains in the best possible condition throughout the winter months, we will be introducing the following control measures:
- Increased Use of Posts and Ropes: These will direct foot and trolley traffic away from vulnerable areas, especially around greens and tees. Fairways will also be roped off on a rotating basis to enable greater recovery. All posts and ropes to be treated as movable obstructions, which can be replaced after playing a stroke.
- Electric Trolley Restrictions: Electric trolleys will be subject to a 90-degree rule, requiring users to walk directly to their ball from the fairway edge, rather than following it along the fairway. Regular pull trolleys will be permitted on fairways, and whilst it is strongly requested that players carry if they can, the lightweight pull/push trolleys do not create the same wear and tear as the heavier electric versions. For players who usually use an electric trolley and who are unable to carry, we have a limited number of push trolleys that may be exchanged to support both our members and protect the course.
- Carry If You Can: It is understood that many golfers require the use of a trolley to make the game more enjoyable. Whilst access to trolleys via a 90-degree rule for electric and usual access for standard push/pull trolleys has been provided, it is strongly requested that golfers who can carry, follow the ‘carry if you can’ initiative. Quite often, through the winter, with the ball travelling a shorter distance, a half set of clubs is perfect for the time of year.
- Buggy Usage: Buggies will also be restricted to the 90-degree rule and will be guided by the zone control enabled in the buggies themselves.
- Fairway Mats: The use of mats has been discussed, and whilst these will not be implemented this year, there are 24 ‘Spurk Golf’ mats available for trial during general play. These can be signed out for trial daily and should be returned to golf reception. Please do wash these down using the trolley wash-down station prior to return. A short survey will be sent to those trialling the mats to help determine future initiatives.
These measures are not only essential for protecting the turf but also for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all players. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work together to maintain the high standards of our course.
Please view this video for guidance.
Rhys Beecher
Director of Golf