Popular Scottish golf courses could be saved from controversial closure

There is renewed hope for golfers in Dundee after it emerged the city’s final remaining municipal courses could be saved from imminent closure.

Dundee City Council voted this month to shut the 18-hole and 9-hole courses at Caird Park as part of plans to plug a £500,000 black hole in their finances.

The move was met with widespread condemnation among locals and a petition to block the closure has already attracted over 3,000 signatures.

And now – thanks to a third party – golfers at Caird Park could get their wish.

• Anger as Dundee City Council confirms Caird Park closure

• Locals launch petition to block Caird Park golf course closure

The Courier is reporting on Monday that an unnamed golf management firm is working on an ambitious proposal to keep the venue open well beyond it’s April closure date.

It is understood that plans include upgrades to the two tracks, the construction of a driving range and a brand new clubhouse.

Under the proposals, Leisure and Culture Dundee would still have control of Caird Park with the advice of the management firm. It’s claimed that the U-turn could be funded by affordable housing being built in the area.

“This company has approached us, Dundee City Council and Leisure and Culture Dundee with their proposals,” Ian Gordon, the club captain at Caird Park, confirmed to The Courier.

“A full business plan has still to be finalised but their proposals are very exciting. If this can go ahead, it would be great for Dundee and great for golf in the city.

“They envisage that the council and Leisure and Culture Dundee operate the new facilities and income streams with them being retained as an advisory partner. The managing director is seeking a meeting with the council in early January to discuss the proposals further.”

• Rotting in plain sight: A morning at Glasgow’s abandoned golf courses

• Scottish golf club in survival fight amid legal battle with its own members

Gordon added: “We would urge that the council looks at these proposals seriously. We think it could potentially be the perfect way forward.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Dundee City Council remained coy on the proposals.

“The council and Leisure and Culture Dundee will work together to consider any approaches that may result in an alternative operating model that does not require ongoing subsidy,” a statement read.

“To date, we have responded to any approaches by providing information relating to the course but have not yet received any business plans or evidence of external investment.

“In the event that an appropriate prospective operator is identified, a report will be brought to the appropriate council committee.”

Ben Parsons joined bunkered as a Content Producer in 2023 and is the man to come to for all of the latest news, across both the professional and amateur games. Formerly of The Mirror and Press Association, he is a member at Halifax Golf Club and is a long-suffering fan of both Manchester United and the Wales rugby team.