American Golf opens first municipal course with world-class Justin Rose Academy on site

American Golf has expanded its leisure division further with the opening its first municipal golf site, Barnehurst Golf Club, in Bexleyheath London.

The move extends the brand’s vision to make golf accessible to all and champion the proven physical and mental health benefits of the sport.

Following significant investment the refurbished site will include a flagship Justin Rose Academy, 15 bay Toptracer Driving Range, 9-hole James Braid golf course, 44 seat Il Corso Sports Lounge & Restaurant and outdoor terrace. A state-of-the-art retail space with custom fit technology is planned for later this year.

As part of their commitment to bringing new people to the game, 1000 free get into golf lessons will be available and distributed via the community, in schools, to uniform groups and via the academy with group ladies, family and junior get into golf lessons. 350 of which have already been secured by local schools.

Gary Favell, CEO for International Leisure Group and American Golf said: “This is our first of hopefully many acquisitions that bring golf back into the heart of communities. We have seen an overwhelming amount of support from Bexleyheath and have worked with the council to make sure we are respectful of all people who wish to enjoy the site as well as implementing an ecology plan too.

“Our team at Barnehurst Golf Club will help make the sport accessible to everyone in the community, epitomising our vision to make golf available for all.”

Leader of the London Borough of Bexley, Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE said:

“I’m delighted that American Golf decided to invest in our great borough. The new facilities are already shaping up to be extremely popular with experienced and new golfers. I know the team are working with groups and schools to get our younger residents interested in the sport. I’m sure it is going to be great asset to local people of all ages. I wish American Golf every success with their exciting and ambitious plans.”

The American Golf Team welcome interest from councils who are looking for new operators. They have built a sustainable model that ensures future success for the club, connects it to the community, as well as using their Academies to bring more people into the game.