UK golf courses issued stark warning over rising threat

UK golf courses have been warned of a rising threat that could significantly harm their long-term operations.

Financial challenges at clubs up and down the country have been well noted, but now all eyes are turning to the weather.

As the UK emerges from one of its warmest Mays on record, golf club consultancy firm Custodian Golf has issued a stark warning to the industry.

It claims that water management should be an immediate concern, with inaction certain to have severe financial and environmental costs.

Entering peak summer months, some regions in the south and east of England are already among the driest in the country, while Scotland has faced its driest spring since 1964.

• The Golf Trust embarks on epic fundraiser for paragolfer wheelchairs

• Historic golf club demands action after vandals drive out members

Phil Grice, Head of Venues at Custodian Golf, believes it’s time to act with turf already under stress and water restrictions tightening across the country.

“Water resource management is now one of the biggest environmental and financial challenges facing our sport,” said Grice.

“Many clubs are already stretched by rising insurance costs, ageing infrastructure and falling membership numbers – but this is an issue that cannot be ignored.

“Unless action is taken now to future-proof irrigation systems and secure a sustainable water supply, clubs will struggle to maintain playability and member satisfaction in the years to come.”

• Golfers in talks to reopen closed Scottish golf course

• Councillor blasts ‘keyboard warriors’ after sale of popular golf course

As pointed out by Golf Business News, many clubs are believed to be relying on irrigation systems more than 20 years old.

That’s according to a 2024 article by the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), which says upgrading to modern, targeted infrastructure can cost upwards of £1 million.

Grice added: “This May’s heat is not an anomaly – it’s a warning.

“Clubs that ignore the signs and fail to act now may find themselves unable to maintain course quality, meet member expectations, or remain financially viable in the years ahead.”

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.