As reported in GBN on 8 December, Birmingham City Council is of looking for private ownership of its ‘Golf Link’ circuit in an effort to sustain the sport for future generations.
Through Golf Link the council delivers a golf service at six 18-hole courses (Boldmere, Cocks Moors Woods, Hatchford Brook, Hilltop, Lickey Hills and Pype Hayes) and one 9-hole course at Harborne Church Farm.
Earlier this month many local residents were enraged when it was announced that Hilltop Golf Course in Handsworth is to be closed within months after reporting a loss of £239,000.
If, however, the City Council can find the right partner the remaining courses could benefit with improved club houses and hospitality facilities which may include hotel, conference and civil wedding services.
The city is also looking at reinstating pitch and putt courses and introducing adventure golf in parks to lure more youngsters and families into the sport.
At Stechford Hall Park, for example, which was among five pitch and putt facilities closed in the mid-1990s, it is reported that the course has been kept in good condition and could be relatively easily reinstated should funds become available.
The Council states, “Pitch and putt would certainly plug a gap in the golf service. At the moment we have a very good schools programme and then we have the municipal courses. Pitch and putt would provide a step up for newcomers to the sport.
Companies and groups have until 4 January to express an interest which, for any of these golf courses, may include management, capital investment and the introduction of complementary leisure and development packages.
If interested, please register by e-mail: procurement_info@birmingham.gov.uk or via the council’s e-portal website: https://supplier.birmingham.gov.uk