Purpose built FootGolf course opens in Cheshire

One of the UK’s longest-established golf design practices has designed a FootGolf course in Cheshire. FootGolf Chester has been designed by Suffolk-based Swan Golf Designs (SGD) and opened as a nine-hole facility with the possibility of extending to 18 holes.

It is believed to be the first course designed by a golf design practice, with most FootGolf venues to date utilising existing land at golf clubs where the target has been an enlarged cup alongside an existing ‘regular’ green.

Putting its architectural experience and expertise to the diversified form of the game, Swan Golf Designs has teamed up with north-west based Bell Developments to establish the new venue.

William Swan, a director at the family-owned practice, which has been designing golf courses for more than 50 years, explained: “FootGolf Chester has been designed as if it were a par-three golf course – with holes varying in length from 35 yards to more than 80 yards, But for FootGolf, they play as par threes, par fours and par fives.

“The green and tees are artificially surfaced, but the remainder of the course is natural grass and is able to be mown with a single machine. The course also features some two dozen bunkers, further enhancing its appearance and difficulty.”

Martin Redrup, golf professional and manager of the facility, added: “We have been simply amazed at the reaction of the local population to our FootGolf course and just how, in such a short time, it is in heavy demand.

“It just goes to show that another form of golf can prove inviting and attractive to so many people. It is taking groups less than an hour to play a round and there is no doubt that our dedicated FootGolf is proving a great draw for young and old, of both genders, and, most importantly, families who want to have some fun.”

Mike Bell, a director with Bell Developments, said: “We are delighted with the design of this first FootGolf course which William and Howard Swan have conceived and helped us build. Given the tremendous demand which we have generated I can see us moving forward with considerably more of this kind of facility in the north-west as well as in other parts of the country. We have already been approached by a number of municipalities looking to establish FootGolf courses in their parks and public areas, as well as some commercial operators who see FootGolf’s ability to attract a wide and different customer base.”

SGD is an independent and professional golf course architecture firm with a track record of providing clients with successful design solutions on golf course projects for more than 50 years.

For more information, visit www.swangolfdesigns.com or www.footgolfchester.co.uk