Golspie embarks on third clean-up op

By Alistair December 3, 2023 10:22

One of Scotland’s highest regarded golf courses has faced major storm damage for the third time in recent memory – but the community has rallied together to return it to its former glory.

Golspie Golf Club faced the full brunt of high tides and strong winds this autumn, following major storm damage in 2012 and 2014.

With coastal rock armour damaged – heightening the risk of erosion, flooding of large areas, and debris littering the course, the club was forced to temporarily close its doors.

William MacBeath, captain of Golspie Golf Club, said: “Just when we thought we had finally got over the big storm in 2012, this one arrived – although thankfully this time there was less damage. I wish to thank all those volunteers who have come to help clear up the mess, and I look forward to working with the Highland Council on repairing the rock armour defences.”

Following a call for help on social media, the club was inundated with volunteers willing to help begin repairs – a huge boost for greenkeepers and the club, which is itself run by volunteers.

Neighbouring courses also committed staff to help with efforts to shift debris in a show of solidarity.

Head greenkeeper Muir Ross added: “It’s quite a blow to experience the impact of the sea and its effects on the course. However, there was limited damage to the playing area. I’m very grateful to colleagues from neighbouring clubs for their help in getting the place tidied up.”

Golspie Golf Club will work with the Highland Council to assess, repair and reinforce the rock armour defences that line the shore, protecting the club – and neighbouring caravan park and go-kart track – from the North Sea.

The club is no stranger to dealing with the effects of bad weather, shifting over 3,500 tonnes of debris from the course after a major storm in late 2012. Then, the course was rendered totally unplayable with some holes impossible to find – with floodwater stretching at least 150 yards inland. Thanks to the help of greenkeepers, local clubs and over 100 volunteers, the club was reopened within a matter of months.