New Scottish golf facility scrapped just weeks before opening

Golfers in East Lothian have been dealt a blow, as a new facility has been scrapped just weeks before it was expected to open.

Located on the East Links in North Berwick, the six-hole pitch and putt course was given the green light earlier this month. But, as first reported by the National, the plans are off the table.

Bill Axon, chief executive of Enjoy Leisure, East Lothian’s charitable trust for sport and leisure, penned a letter to residents informing them of the news.

Now, in a statement, Axon said: “After considering feedback and further assessing the expansion of our existing golf provision in North Berwick, the decision was made last week not to proceed with an additional pitch and putt course in the area.

“I would like to thank those who provided both positive and negative comment from within the community of North Berwick, which was invaluable in allowing Enjoy Leisure to make a final determination.”

Details of the new course were revealed by the East Lothian Courier recently, and Axon admitted the organisation was “looking forward” to the development.

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“This project aims to enhance recreational opportunities and has been designed with the community in mind,” he said.

“We plan to host coaching sessions to encourage youngsters not only to play golf, but also to increase their activity levels, which is one of our main commitments.

“The space will remain accessible for the full East Lothian community and visitors to North Berwick.”

Concerns had been raised about the plans, however, particularly surrounding the safety of the proposal and the land’s public use.

An unnamed local resident told the National: “It’s great that Enjoy Leisure has now confirmed that the Common Good land is for everyone and that the proposed pitch and putt won’t be going ahead.”

Meanwhile, Kenny Miller, chair of North Berwick Community Council, added: “Concerns have been raised about the potential loss of amenity space.

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“I haven’t yet seen the extent of this course, whether it occupies more space than the putting green occupied. This is common land.

“Concerns have also been raised about the safety of this proposal, as there is a public footpath alongside the course.

“Enjoy Leisure say the orientation of the holes means this is safe, but presupposes that every shot played goes exactly where it is intended to go. We know that is unlikely to happen.”

It comes at a time when golf clubs up and down the country face challenges to stay alive.

Dalmuir Golf Course has had its funding removed by West Dunbartonshire Council, while others are being forced to close.

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Tryst Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.