Effingham GC completes major bunker renovation

By Alistair May 28, 2018 14:53

Effingham Golf Club has used a trip back in time as the inspiration for its new-look championship course after completing a major renovation and upgrade of its classic course and club facilities.

The prestigious Surrey club has invested a significant six-figure sum over the last five years to return all 73 bunkers on its historic downland layout back to their original design, created by Harry Colt in the 1920s.

With finishing touches completed by the greenkeeping team lead by Jon Budd, the course fully opened at the start of the golfing season.

Steve Slinger, general manager at Effingham GC, said: “The aim of the project was to return the bunkers to a style in keeping with how they looked when the course opened in 1927 and we’re delighted with the result.

“We have always had the stunning views here at Effingham, however the bunkers are now equally our signature. With the changes in golf club and ball technology, many had become superfluous, and the new bunkering makes it tougher off the tee for the longer hitters – and definitely more challenging in and around the greens for everyone.”

Set in 270 acres of picturesque Surrey countryside near Guildford, the 6,800-yard classic layout features two very separate loops of nine, and it is set to enjoy further acclaim later this year, hosting the PGA Surrey Masters in September, and next year having been chosen to host the 2019 England Golf Senior Men’s County Championship Final.