Course Alterations and Ecology Work

Aberdovey Golf Club and the Countryside Council of Wales have recently agreed to work together in an ecology and land management plan on part of the Dyfi SSSI. This five year plan, compiled by the environmental wing of the Sports Turf Research Institute, is expected to improve the ecological condition of circa 7000m2 of land which the golf club utilises. The Dyfi site is internationally recognised as a rich botanical area and operates as a RAMSAR site and a Special Area of Conservation for land and marine elements respectively. The work will consist of shrub clearance, rough grassland management and creating additional eco-features which will further enhance the bio-diversity of the site. In return, the golf club has been given permission to carry out work which will focus on the design and aesthetics of the golf course.

Ian Hamilton, Manager of Aberdovey Golf Club adds; this is a very welcome co-operative agreement with our partners at CCW. It is an excellent platform to share the ideals of the site and is now very much seen as best practice for golf courses that operate within Sites of Special and Scientific Interest. CCW have kindly allowed us carry out some remodelling of the course features such as bunkers and teeing grounds.

Golf architect – ‘Islander Golf’s’ John Kemp, has extensively researched the history of the course and will be reintroducing natural design elements of the traditional links. Particular emphasis will be placed on restoring the rustic features which have sadly been lost over time. The alterations will also see the course extended to play between 5,800 yards and 6,700 yards.

The finished product will ultimately raise the profile of the golf course to best in its class in Wales and rivalling other links experiences such as Royal County Down in Northern Ireland and Bandon Dunes in the United States.