Golf club plans to remodel course with 250,000 tonnes of earth

A quarter of a million tonnes of earth could be shipped in to remodel a Mansfield golf course and help stem a 'drop-off in business'.
Sherwood Forest Golf ClubSherwood Forest Golf Club
Sherwood Forest Golf Club

Sherwood Forest Golf Club has applied for planning permission to make improvements to the site, including tackling long-standing drainage issues.

The 18-hole golf club, which has been on its current site off Eakring Road since 1912, is also looking to upgrade its practice ground, create a new putting green and extend its car park by 36 spaces.

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It will also look to build a series of covered bays as part of a driving range.

However, tackling drainage has become a priority.

In a statement to Nottinghamshire County Council, which will rule on the application, the private members’ club said: “Badly draining outfields can lead to long periods throughout the year when ball collection is difficult, if not impossible, often resulting in periods of closure.

“The quality of the playing surface will also suffer with bare and muddy patches and periods when the grass can not be cut.

“The poor quality of the presentation is quickly reflected by the drop-off in business.

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“It affects the overall quality of the leisure experience at the club and is damaging the business as a result of its size, appearance and the difficulty in maintaining it.”

If given approval, the 250,000 tonnes of earth would be used to raise levels above the water table and reprofile the surfaces so water can be quickly displaced.

The plans have even been backed by Mansfield mayor, Kate Allsop, who has written to the county council, saying: “I am in full support and feel it will only enhance the club and bring more clientele to the Mansfield area.”

The club says the practice ground is too narrow, lacks excitement and needs investment.

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A new state-of-the-art short-game academy will also be created with an “attractive landscape and new wetland waterway” and featuring multiple targets, tees and bunker. A separate new practice putting green will also be constructed, while more than 15 covered wooden bays are proposed for a driving range, with a lighting system to allow it to be used during the hours of darkness.