Wentworth unveils East Course renovation plans – Golf News

Wentworth Club has unveiled plans to renovate its 100-year-old East Course and build a new golf academy and par-3 course.

The 6,200-yard East Course at the renowned Surrey venue was designed by Harry Colt and first opened for play in 1924, two years before the more famous West Course, venue for this week’s BMW PGA Championship, was built.

The renovation project, which is to be carried out by leading architects European Golf Design working closely with Wentworth’s senior management team, will aim to return the par-68 course to its heathland roots, restoring Colt’s original design values.

Among the changes outlined include extensive bunker reshaping, with a number of the course’s smaller bunkers being combined to create bigger ones, while several of the green complexes and fairways will also be reshaped and redefined.

A woodland management programme will enhance the landscape as part of the club’s continued commitment to sustainability.

In a separate development, the club is to build a new golf academy that will include three indoor teaching studios, a putting studio, an outdoor short game area and a café with outdoor seating.

Featuring the latest technology for game improvement, the area surrounding the academy will also feature nine new outdoor hitting bays, while a new par-3 short course is also part of the development plans, with the layout being long enough to be certified for handicapping purposes.

Stuart Boyle, Club Manager at Wentworth, said: “We are committed to providing a world-class offering for our members, creating a golf and country club experience which is cherished and admired the world over.

“The renovation work on the East Course is a clear sign as we continue to strive to make a classic heathland test even greater, while recognising the original roots that have made the layout so iconic. Meanwhile, the development of our new Golf Academy will only enhance the golf offering we have at Wentworth.”