Royal Portrush saved from potentially ‘catastrophic’ damage ahead of The Open

Royal Portrush has completed work to save the Dunluce links from ‘catastrophic’ damage ahead of the 153rd Open next year.

The £165,000 project has strengthened the coastal erosion defences protecting part of the famous course – as it prepares to host the final men’s major of the 2025 season.

Fears have been growing over the potential for winter storms to cause significant damage to the back of the fifth green and the sixth tee box.

Carried out by Northstone Materials of Belfast, the project involved extending the rock armour by 20 metres on a stretch of the East Strand.

It will ensure that the aformentioned area – the most vulnerable of the golf course – has long-term protection from the elements.

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A marine licence was needed to begin the works in February, but it was secured following lengthy discussions with officials of the Department of the Environment, Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

“The erosion experienced at the back of the sixth tee was of huge concern and presented a serious threat to this area of the course,” said John Lawler, Royal Portrush’s General Manager.

“This modest increase to the existing defences will provide a more robust defence from winter storms.

“The completed works will allow us all to breathe easier, particularly with the 2025 Open just around the corner. The potential for catastrophic damage to this area of the course, especially so close to the Open, does not bear thinking about.”

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Meanwhile, North Antrim MP Ian Paisley backed the project that will ‘better’ the country.

“Let’s be clear – without the defence work being carried out, the vital economic benefit that comes to Northern Ireland and the coast as a result of golf tourism as an economic driver, would be lost,” he said.

“I congratulate all those who worked tirelessly to make this happen. Northern Ireland will be the better for it, and our coastal asset strengthened as a result.”

The soon-to-be three-time Open venue is not the first to suffer from the effects of coastal erosion. A report from the BBC in April showed that more than 100 Scottish golf courses are dealing with the issue.

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.