Improvement and upgrade work continues at Kedleston Park, designed by James Braid in Derbyshire. The upgrade programme is under the guidance of Tom Mackenzie, of golf course architects, Mackenzie and Ebert. The brief at Kedleston Park has focused on the reworking of some the course’s bunkers, mounds and greenside complexes, with 2013’s phase one seeing work on the first, tenth and eleventh holes completed.
Following the success of the initial phase, this winter’s phase two involves a more extensive programme taking in the second, third, ninth, 17th and 18th holes. Some bunkers are being reshaped and restyled, others repositioned. Some are being removed and converted into grass hollows or run-offs, with all benefiting from new drainage systems.
The aims of the upgrade programme are twofold: to improve the visual appeal of the holes as golfers stand over shots, and to enhance the course’s strategic and tactical demands, ensuring that good shots continue to be rewarded while miscues may lead to greater challenges.
Ian Neal, club chairman stated, “We are convinced that the excellent work Tom Mackenzie is doing will not only provide our existing members with the calibre of course they deserve, but also help us to attract more members and visitors as word of the improvements spreads. We are all looking forward to seeing the fruits of these considerable labours next year.” More at: www.kedlestonparkgolfclub.co.uk
