North Berwick Golf Club has appointed leading course architect Gil Hanse to develop a master plan for a reservation project that will serve to ‘polish and protect’ the world-famous West Links.
American-born Hanse, 62, is renowned for restoring some of the game’s most historically significant courses, including US Open venues Oakmont, Merion, and Los Angeles Country Club, and consulting for iconic destinations such as Seminole and Sunningdale. His acclaimed design portfolio also includes The Olympic Course in Rio de Janeiro, Ohoopee Match Club, Castle Stuart, and CapRock Ranch.
The first phase of this collaboration, beginning in 2026, will see Hanse develop a master plan for the West Links, preserving its heritage while preparing for the future. The plan will focus on restoring key features, maintaining the 6,420-yard, par-71 course’s unique character, and prioritising sustainability.
Stuart Bayne, General Manager at The North Berwick Golf Club, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Gil Hanse. His unparalleled expertise and deep respect for tradition make him the perfect partner to preserve and elevate one of the world’s most historic and iconic courses, recently ranked 25th among the top 100 courses globally.
“The master plan will identify ways to polish the West Links to be the best version of itself, ensuring continuity year on year through minor refinements. While significant changes are not anticipated, a key priority will be addressing the challenges of coastal erosion. This includes implementing robust contingency measures alongside our existing engineering projects to mitigate future risks from the advancing sea.”
Hanse and his team will work closely with North Berwick Course Manager Kyle Cruickshank and engage with a select group of members to ensure the plan reflects their insights while honouring the course’s rich history.
Speaking about the commission, Hanse said: “We are delighted and honoured to have been selected to provide architectural guidance in the form of a master plan for the North Berwick West Links. The West Links is one of the most consequential golf courses in the history of golf course architecture. It has provided guidance and inspiration to nearly every person who has ever practiced our craft.
“We are excited to learn as much as possible about the roots of the course, and use this research to inform our recommendations for the master plan. We appreciate the trust that the stewards of the links have put in us to create a plan that will honour the traditions of the links, and prepare it for the future with respect to the game and the environment.”