Balfron Golf Society announce new clubhouse project

Balfron Golf Society has announced that, following a meeting of members on 30th August 2023, it will begin the construction of a new clubhouse at the course in Balfron.

This follows substantial support and grant funding from the sportscotland Sport Facilities fund.

The Clubhouse will be the next stage in the development of this community facility and the society’s goals to grow the game of golf in Stirlingshire.

The society hopes that the facility will help enhance the game of golf and attract new members to join the club.

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It is hoped that the club’s focus on women and girls in golf and junior development will be further strengthened by this substantial investment by the golf society and sportscotland.

The cost of the project is likely to be around £300,000, with the society providing the main funding.

Situated on the site of the current wooden structure, the building will offer dedicated changing facilities for gents, ladies and junior golfers.

Balfron Golf Society has an extremely healthy junior membership with over 50 junior golfers playing and learning; having their own facility will enhance that experience.

Toilet and shower facilities and a public lounge area with enhanced storage and disabled access are the main features of the building.

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Balfron has seen an increase in members and visitors, and these facilities will make the experience more enjoyable and increase the numbers coming into Balfron.

Susan McKenzie, Club Captain, said: “Balfron Golf Society is a proud community club and has worked tirelessly to encourage involvement in golf at all levels.

“We run hugely successful junior programmes and have a strong ladies section that continues to go from strength to strength.

“One of the club’s key foundations is affordability, as we’re keen to see every member of the local community given access to a quality golf course on their doorstep.

“The new clubhouse allows us to better care for our members but also provide excellent facilities to our growing visitor base, our local community and to encourage participation in golf for everyone and all levels.”

Andrew Baptie, Head of Club Services and Governance at Scottish Golf, said: “Scottish Golf is delighted to see Balfron Golf Society undertake this facility project.

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“By working in partnership with sportscotland and other bodies, the club has demonstrated their commitment to building a sustainable future for golf in their local area.

“Their aspiration to create a welcoming environment for young golfers and the local community aligns with Scottish’s Golf vision to make golf Scotland’s game for everyone. We wish the club the best of luck with the next phase of the project.”

Chief Executive of sportscotland, Forbes Dunlop, added: “Balfron Golf Society has a long history of providing opportunities for the local community to take part in golf and wider activities, and it is fantastic to see their continued ambition through this clubhouse development.

“The commitment to inclusion built into this project was a key factor in our decision to support the development through National Lottery investment from the Sports Facilities Fund.

“We know that improving the places people take part in sport is crucial for widening opportunities, but it’s the commitment of partners like Balfron Golf Society to ensure that the needs of the local community are met that will ensure this club will continue to be a huge asset to Balfron and the surrounding area for many years to come.”