New budget could force golf clubs to close, warns expert

A leading golf industry professional has warned that new budget measures in the UK could lead to the closure of several golf clubs across the country.

Phil Grice, the Head of Venues at consultancy firm Custodian Golf, made the gloomy prediction after chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered Labour’s first Budget since 2010, following the party’s return to government in July.

Speaking to the BBC shortly after unveiling a raft of measures designed to plug a reported £22bn “black hole” in the country’s finances, Reeves acknowledged the challenges that will be presented, insisting “this is not the sort of Budget we would want to repeat.”

One of measures is a continuation of a freeze on the thresholds at which different rates of income tax are paid.

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According to Grice, this could spell bad news for already-struggling golf clubs.

“The autumn budget’s income tax freeze is essentially a stealth tax, quietly raising costs for working families over time while disposable incomes shrink,” he said.

“This approach leaves little room for households to keep up, let alone invest in memberships or leisure activities like golf.

“Disappointingly, the budget also falls short on sustainability initiatives – a significant miss given the rising climate pressures and the heavy costs clubs face to manage their environmental footprint.”

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Grice added: “These pressures could tip the scales for many golf clubs, especially those already vulnerable. Hundreds of clubs are struggling with operational costs and real climate impacts – flood risks, outdated irrigation systems, and escalating insurance costs – all issues left unaddressed here.

“Clubs risk falling behind without strategic shifts toward diversified income, flexible memberships, and sustainable practices.

“To protect the future of the sport, we need more than today’s status quo; we need targeted support and a forward-thinking approach to ensure golf clubs can thrive for generations to come.”

Michael McEwan is bunkered's Head of Content and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Head of Content