Holyhead Golf Club Struggles After Closure of 18th Hole by Council
By David Powell
Holyhead Golf Club, a historic establishment dating back to 1912, is facing a significant challenge following the closure of its 18th hole by the Anglesey Council. This decision came after a complaint from a neighbour regarding errant golf balls landing on their property. As a result, the club is now racing against time to raise £75,000 to construct a new 18th hole, failing which members and guests will have to contend with only playing on 17 greens.
An artist’s impression depicts the potential newly redesigned layout of Holyhead Golf Club, showing the 18th green in the middle distance (Image: Holyhead Golf Club)
The club officials are deeply disappointed by the council’s actions, with a spokesperson acknowledging the financial strain of generating such a substantial amount at short notice. The neighbour’s concern about golf balls straying beyond the course boundary prompted the council’s closure notice, emphasizing the need for a safer distance between the green and the neighbouring property.
Understandably, the club’s representatives have expressed their inability to defy the council’s directive, highlighting the challenges of securing the necessary funds swiftly. They are actively pursuing fundraising avenues, including a GoFundMe campaign titled “Construction of a New Golf Green due to Council Notice,” aimed at gathering the required amount to restore the 18-hole golf course.
The decision to close the 18th hole has left Holyhead Golf Club operating as a 17-hole course temporarily, creating logistical and competitive challenges for the club. Maintaining an 18-hole course is vital for attracting visitors and hosting standard competitions, making the reinstatement of the final hole imperative for the club’s future sustainability.
Despite the setback, the club remains optimistic about the possibility of unveiling a new 18th green by May 1, 2025, after completing all essential landscaping work. Isle of Anglesey County Council has affirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of golfers and the public, citing the closure notice as a precautionary measure under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
In response to the situation, the club’s spokesperson reiterated the community-focused nature of their initiative, aimed at fostering joy and engagement through the sport of golf. The fund’s progress, currently at 46% of the target, reflects the support and solidarity of members, local residents, and golf enthusiasts towards restoring the club’s full capacity.
As Holyhead Golf Club navigates this unforeseen predicament, the determination and unity demonstrated in their fundraising efforts speak volumes about the resilience and spirit of the golfing community. The road ahead may be challenging, but with unwavering support and a shared commitment to revitalizing the club’s facilities, the prospect of a new 18th hole looms on the horizon, embodying hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.
This unfolding tale underscores the significance of community support, resilience in the face of adversity, and the enduring legacy of historical institutions like Holyhead Golf Club. As they strive to overcome this obstacle and emerge stronger, the shared passion for the sport and camaraderie within the club’s membership serve as beacons of inspiration for golf enthusiasts far and wide.