Where Old Tom Trod: Golf in Machrihanish
You would need to be a serious whisky devotee to make the long journey to Campbeltown for its whisky heritage alone, but for whisky swiggers who golf, welcome to Mecca (but with alcohol freely available).
Five miles to the west of Campbeltown, straight across Scotland’s Kintyre peninsula, Machrihanish Golf Club hugs the beaches of the Atlantic. One of the great old links preserved from the 19th century, the course dates back to 1876 and it is no co-incidence that it was formed during the golden era of Campbeltown whisky, with plenty of wealthy, resident businessmen requiring a game.
You would need to be a serious whisky devotee to make the long journey to Campbeltown for its whisky heritage alone, but for whisky swiggers who golf, welcome to Mecca (but with alcohol freely available).
Machrihanish GC brought in Charles Hunter from Prestwick to mastermind its original 12 holes. Hunter had learned his trade under Old Tom Morris when Morris was the founding professional at Prestwick, and in 1879 Morris himself was recruited by Machrihanish to extend the course to the 18 holes that remain today. One of the changes Morris made was to move the first hole to beside the beach, demanding that golfers open their round with a tee shot not dissimilar to that on the 18th at Pebble Beach. The dare is how much of the crescent of beach to take on because a well-measured drive opens up a birdie chance.
The 17th hole at Machrihanish Dunes
The first at Machrihanish has become one of the most famous opening challenges in British golf, defying convention of modern design by presenting golfers with a real test of nerve with the very first swing. It is ruthless by nature but it also stands as testimony to the bold and uncompromising personality of Morris.
By contemporary standards of design, Morris would be considered a maverick. Across the Firth of Clyde at Prestwick, for example, lies the first course Morris designed and built in 1851 and it features a rare treasure—a blind par-3 with a towering sand dune between tee and green.
“Tom’s approach to golf course design was to first find a good place for a green,” explains Ken Goodwin, secretary at Prestwick. “Once he had identified that, he would find another good place for a green, and so it went on. If there happened to be a sand dune or a depression on the road to the green then it was up to the golfer to negotiate it, one way or another.”
The 18th green
Morris set the standard for the design of links courses for generations to come. At courses like Prestwick and Machrihanish, if newcomers stand on a tee and can see a flag ahead, they are probably not facing in the right direction. Call it Victorian charm.
The front nine at Machrihanish runs up the Atlantic coastline, with blind tee shots aplenty but with the prevailing westerly wind hopefully helping along, before the course turns around at the 10th tee, zigzagging its way back towards the village. The course measures only 6,473 yards from the back tees, but coming down the homeward stretch into the westerly breeze quickly turns a short hole on the card into a battle of attrition. Here lies the genius of Morris in 18 holes.
Raising Machrihanish from an isolated golfing outpost into a destination of true class is the old course’s young neighbor, Machrihanish Dunes, established by American company Southworth Development. Like many great British links that literally lie side by side—like 2017 [British] Open venue Royal Birkdale and Hillside—Machrihanish GC and Machrihanish Dunes seamlessly adjoin.
Machrihanish Dunes was designed by David McLay Kidd and was the first golf course built on a Site of Special Scientific Interest in Scotland in over 100 years, opening in 2009. Yet “built” was not the operative word. The conditions of construction were that no heavy equipment could be used on this duneland, so McLay Kidd reverted to an “Old Tom” style of design. He located 18 natural greens, found 18 areas for tees and the rest was fine tuning.
Looking out to the north
“Machrihanish Dunes was an opportunity to do something unique and special in terms of building a true links golf course by hand,” starts David Southworth, whose company owns and operates the golf course and two hotels in Machrihanish and Campbeltown. “I loved the challenge. There was a little bit of a risk, but also it was not as expensive as some other developments because we were not moving lots of earth to build the course.
“It was done with shovels and wheelbarrows, just as golf courses were first built. The process was invigorating and really a labor of love and we are very proud of it.”
So they should be. Machrihanish Dunes literally feels and plays as promised, just with some mown areas between the tees and greens to serve as fairways. And true to the old designs of Morris, there are plenty of blind tee shots over dips and dunes; strikes of the golf ball for which the newcomer just hopes are fairway bound as they fly over the crest of a dune and out of sight.
“I recommend golfers take a caddie the first time they play,” says Kevin Lewis, General Manager of The Village of Machrihanish Dunes. “It helps a lot to be pointed in the right direction. The key is to keep the ball in play although the course is open enough and players can find their ball most of the time. Golfers really need to play it twice, because on the second round they know where they are going and they are going to feel a lot more comfortable.”
If anything, Machrihanish Dunes is the wilder of the two neighbors. It is a walking rollercoaster through the dunes, up, down and around, with bumps and slopes delivering the golf ball into unexpected swales. The bunkers have been left natural and unfettered, as they would have been throughout Scotland in the 19th century, so golfers get a genuine sense of what the game was like for its founding fathers (but without the hickory shafts, in my bag anyway).
On this particular visit in the fall, Peter, the manager, kindly accompanied me from the clubhouse to the first tee, where I was about to take on Machrihanish Dunes for the first time, by myself on this occasion and, er, without a caddie. I felt brave and intrepid. Peter pointed me in the right direction and then asked, “Do you have a GPS unit?”
“No.”
“Good,” he said, and marched back to the warmly lit shelter of the clubhouse.
And that is the whole point here, on both courses. It is old school and it’s a blast.
The Golfer’s Journal
A new Bandon? This remote Scottish resort plans to add more golf
BY: JO SH S ENS SEPTEMBER 14, 2024
Machrihanish Dunes has been praised as one of the “most natural” courses in the world. COURTESY
When Bandon Dunes opened, in 1999, it patterned itself on golf across the pond, with a Scottish-style links along the Oregon coast. Twenty-five years later, the script has flipped. Many far-flung resorts now mimic Bandon Dunes.
The model that they follow is rooted in a maxim popularized by Bandon founder Mike Keiser, who is fond of saying that while one course counts as a curiosity, two courses qualify as a destination. The more good golf you build, the more likely they will come.
OF MACHRIHANISH DUNES
And so it has gone around globe, at marquee properties from the sand barrens of Wisconsin to the shores of New Zealand: one course begets another. Portfolios grow.
The latest example of Bandon emulation comes from the Village at Machrihanish Dunes, an off-thebeaten-path resort on the Kintyre Peninsula, in western Scotland.
Already home to Machrihanish Dunes, an acclaimed links by David McLay Kidd, the Scottish-born designer of the original course at Bandon, the resort is on path to build a second 18.
The news was announced this week by Southworth, the Boston-based golf developer that owns Machrihanish, which said that its expansion plans have been approved.
“Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world,” Tommy Southworth, the company’s president said. “So it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland while being sensitive to the natural landscape.”
The plans, which also call for additional hotel rooms, cottages, a clubhouse and a practice facility, center on a routing that will run alongside Machrihanish Dunes, moving from the ocean’s edge into the foothills and incorporating elevated views into a traditional seaside links. The new course, Southworth said, would abide by the same sustainable practices a Machrihanish Dunes, which has been widely recognized for its environmental sensitivity.
For golfers, the resort is not the only draw on the Kintyre Peninsula, which has a handful of other links courses, including Machrihanish Golf Club, an Old Tom Morris design that ranks 97th on GOLF’s list of Top 100 Courses in the World. But new layouts don’t come around in this part of the world often.
At this early stage, an architect for the new course has not yet been selected, but work is expected to begin in 2025.
Josh Sens
Golf.com Editor
A golf, food and travel writer, Josh Sens has been a GOLF Magazine contributor since 2004 and now contributes across all of GOLF’s platforms. His work has been anthologized in The Best American Sportswriting. He is also the co-author, with Sammy Hagar, of Are We Having Any Fun Yet: the Cooking and Partying Handbook.
Popular Scottish golf club to get new course
By John Turnbull • Published: 10 hours
One of Scotland’s most popular golf clubs is braced for the creation of a second championship course.
According to the Scotsman, Machrihanish Dunes, in Kintyre, has been given the green light to undergo a major expansion project.
The new 18-hole course will be built alongside the existing David McLay Kidd-design, which opened in 2009.
Described as one “one of the most natural golf courses in the world”, the original layout implemented sustainable building practices, and the new course will get the same treatment.
It was the first-ever GEO-certified golf course in the UK.
The president of Southworth, Tommy Southworth, said: “Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape.
“In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”
Meanwhile, the project includes ‘one of the largest teaching facilities in the UK’, with indoor and outdoor practice bays and a nine-acre short-game area to be built.
A new sports and racquet centre, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness area and spa, large function room and state-of-the-art tennis, pickleball and football facilities are also planned.
Improvements to the accommodation will be made in the form of a third luxury hotel and 50 golf cottages, too.
“We remain hopelessly in love with Machrihanish Dunes – the place, the people and the golf experience,” Southworth added.
“We will ensure the pure and authentic surroundings of Machrihanish remain, while creating a significant boost to the local economy, not only through the creation of hundreds of jobs upon completion, but through utilising the skillsets of a myriad of local companies.”
Southworth Development LLC, a privately held golf company based in Boston, purchased Machrihanish Dunes in 2009, two months before it officially opened.
Since then, the award-winning seaside resort has gained global recognition.
TOPICS
MACHRIHANISH DUNES
John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.
Exclusive: Second golf course to be built at Scottish venue by besotted American owners
By Martin Dempster Golf Specialist
Published 11th Sep 2024, 11:04 BST
Asecond championship course is at the heart of a major expansion project that has been given the green light for Machrihanish Dunes, where the American owners are continuing to work closely with the local community at a venue they “remain hopelessly in love with”.
The new course on the Kintyre Peninsula will be built alongside the existing layout, which was designed by Scot David McLay Kidd and, since opening in 2009, has been dubbed “one of the most natural golf courses in the world” due to the implementation of acclaimed sustainable practices that will also be used on the second course.
Planning permission has also been granted for the creation of what is being described as “one of the largest teaching facilities in the UK”, with both indoor and outdoor practice bays and a nine-acre short-game area part of the exciting new project being undertaken by owners Southworth, a Boston-based privately-held global golf company.
In addition, the work will include the creation of a new sports and racquet centre, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness area and spa, large function room, state-of-the-art tennis, pickleball and football facilities, all of which will enhance Machrihanish Dunes as a resort destination.
The project also includes the provision of increased accommodation through a third luxury hotel and 50 golf cottages, which, upon completion, will mean a total of more than 200 rooms and seven food and beverage outlets as part of the resort.
Southworth has sought out these expansion permits with the goal of partnering with a world-class hospitality partner and preliminary discussions are underway.
Tommy Southworth, president of Southworth, said: “Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape.
“In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”
The existing course at Machrihanish Dunes was designed by Scot David McLay-Kidd and opened in 2009. | Azalea
The new golf course sits, in part, on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the same care will be given to preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of the landscape as the existing course, which was the first-ever GEO-certified golf course in the UK.
Eleanor Brown, the company’s Director of Sustainability, said: “Southworth believes it is paramount that we support and protect the communities and environments where we operate, ensuring we keep each club setting spectacular for generations to come. Being stewards of land and community means operating with a sustainability-first mindset from ideation through the execution of any project or initiative. It also means supporting the communities in which we operate, through local hiring and training, philanthropic initiatives and more.”
In addition to the existing course, the new layout will help attract more visitors to the Kintyre Peninsula, where Machrihanish in particular but also Dunaverty are also popular venues.
“We remain hopelessly in love with Machrihanish Dunes – the place, the people and the golf experience,” added Southworth. “We will ensure the pure and authentic surroundings of Machrihanish remain, while creating a significant boost to the local economy, not only through the creation of hundreds of jobs upon completion, but through utilising the skillsets of a myriad of local companies.”
Related Topics: Scotland
Plans for second Machrihanish Dunes course receive approval
Development plans also include new hotel rooms and 50 cottages
By Richard Humphreys
Wed 11 Sep, 2024
Golf development and management company Southworth has unveiled expansion plans for Machrihanish Dunes in Argyll, Scotland.
The resort has the Machrihanish Dunes course designed by David McLay Kidd, two hotels, five restaurants and eight seaside cottages. The expansion project, which has received planning permission, will add a second layout adjacent to Kidd’s course, an extensive golf training facility and practice area, a new hotel and 50 cottages.
The new course will have holes on the cliff edge and will meander through rugged dunescape and into the foothills, offering a mix of long-range views, dramatic elevation changes and traditional seaside links. No architect has been publicly named yet.
“Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape,” said Tommy Southworth, president of Southworth. “In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, a world top 100 links designed by Old Tom Morris, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”
The project has included input from the local community through contact and focus groups. Currently, Southworth is vetting hospitality investors and operators regarding potential partnerships, and the development company is seeking out a world-class hospitality partner to create a resort destination, with preliminary discussions under way.
The land of the new course sits, in part, on a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) and will be built and maintained with the same sustainable practices that are in use on the existing course. The project also aims to increase the area of dune vegetation habitat and Southworth will partner with NatureScot on a long-term habitat management plan for the lifetime of the course, as it has for the first layout.
“Southworth believes it is paramount that we support and protect the communities and environments where we operate, ensuring we keep each club setting spectacular for generations to come,” said Eleanor Brown, director of sustainability at Southworth. “Being stewards of land and community means operating with a sustainability-first mindset from ideation through the execution of any project or initiative. It also means supporting the communities in which we operate, through local hiring and training, philanthropic initiatives and more.”
A large teaching facility is planned, with indoor and outdoor practice bays, and a nine-acre short-game area.
A new 35,000-square-foot clubhouse, 150-seat restaurant, large function room, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fitness area and spa are also part of the expansion plans.
Southworth Receives Green Light For Major Machrihanish Dunes Resort Expansion
09/11/2024 by
Elena Reiter
Planning permission has been granted for a transformative plan that includes a second championship links golf course, third luxury hotel, 50 golf cottages, clubhouse and a variety of other resort amenities.
Southworth – a Boston-based, privately-held global golf company specialising in the development and management of clubs and residential communities – has unveiled plans for a significant resort expansion to The Village at Machrihanish Dunes in Argyll, Scotland and is actively vetting hospitality investors and operators regarding potential partnerships.
The Machrihanish Resort (Image: Azalea)
New Links Course Added to Historic Golf Venue
Southworth is honoured and excited to expand Scotland’s most sustainable golf resort, which currently includes the renowned Machrihanish Dunes golf course, an authentic, David McLay Kidddesigned links. Machrihanish Dunes has been dubbed “one of the most natural golf courses in the world” and is proud to be the first-ever GEO-certified golf course in the UK. In addition to the celebrated golf course, the resort includes two historic hotels, lovingly restored to modern hospitality standards, five restaurants and pubs, and eight seaside golf cottages.
The expansion project will add a seaside links course adjacent to Machrihanish Dunes – and is to be developed in the same manner.
Tommy Southworth, President of Southworth, said: “Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape. In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, a world top 100 links designed by Old Tom Morris, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”
Along with the new golf course, these approvals include an expansive golf training facility and practice facility, 73 additional hotel rooms, and 50 golf cottages, and a myriad of additional amenities. Upon completion, Southworth’s assets within the resort will total more than 200 rooms and seven food and beverage outlets to support the 36 holes of golf along with the surrounding acclaimed courses.
Southworth has sought out these expansion permits with the goal of partnering with a world-class hospitality partner to create a resort destination with broad appeal and generous amenity sets that offer something for everyone and expand interest in this beautiful location. Preliminary discussions are underway.
The new golf course sits, in part, on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and will be created and maintained using the same sustainable practices in use on the existing course. An unwavering dedication to preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of this special landscape has proven successful at Machrihanish Dunes, as evidenced by the re-emergence and flourishing of a number of wildlife and plant species. The new 18-hole routing will meet Machrihanish Dunes in the linksland along the ocean’s edge and meander its way through the rugged dunescape and into the foothills, creating a unique design that features a mix of awe-inspiring views, dramatic elevation changes and traditional seaside links.
Eleanor Brown, Director of Sustainability with Southworth, said: “Southworth believesit is paramount that we support and protect the communities and environments where we operate, ensuring we keep each club setting spectacular for generations to come. Being stewards of land and community means operating with a sustainability-first mindset from ideation through the execution of any project or initiative. It also means supporting the communities in which we operate, through local hiring and training, philanthropic initiatives and more.”
The project, true to Southworth’s ethos, has included significant input from the local community through regular contact and focus groups. The project aims to not only be respectful to its surroundings but also go a step further by increasing the area of dune vegetation habitat.
To ensure a wealth of species thrive, Southworth will partner with NatureScot on a long-term habitat management plan for the lifetime of the golf course, in keeping with the successful model in place at Machrihanish Dunes.
One of the largest teaching facilities in the UK is planned for the site, with indoor and outdoor practice bays, and a nine-acre short-game area. To complement the golf amenities, a new sports and racquet centre will provide visitors with state-of-the-art tennis, pickleball and football facilities.
The development will also include an approximately 35,000-square-foot clubhouse with a 150-seat restaurant and a large function room that will host up to 250 guests – making it ideal for weddings and corporate events. The clubhouse will also be home to an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness area and spa for members to use at their leisure.
These additions join the historic Ugadale Hotel, which sits just steps from the “Best Starting Hole in Golf” and the Old Tom Morris Pub, and the captivating Royal Hotel, which is located in the heart of Campbelltown and overlooks its impressive harbour, among the components of a resort steeped in history and situated at one of the world’s most beautiful and preserved locations.
Southworth added: “We will ensure the pure and authentic surroundings of Machrihanish remain, while creating a significant boost to the local economy, not only through the creation of hundreds of jobs upon completion, but through utilising the skillsets of a myriad of local companies,” Southworth adds.
“We remain hopelessly in love with Machrihanish Dunes – the place, the people and the golf experience.”
Text: Azalea
Machrihanish Dunes to build second golf course
By Alistair Dunsmuir
September 12, 2024 10:53
A US company that develops and manages golf clubs around the world has unveiled plans for a significant resort expansion to The Village at Machrihanish Dunes in Argyll, Scotland, including a new 18hole golf course.
Southworth has also said it is actively vetting hospitality investors and operators regarding potential partnerships.
Machrihanish Dunes is described as Scotland’s most sustainable golf resort, which currently includes the renowned Machrihanish Dunes golf course, and the first-ever GEO-certified golf course in the UK. The resort includes two historic hotels, restored to modern hospitality standards, five restaurants and pubs, and eight seaside golf cottages.
The expansion project will add a seaside links course adjacent to Machrihanish Dunes – and is to be developed in the same manner.
Tommy Southworth, president of Southworth, said: “Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape. In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, a world top 100 links designed by Old Tom Morris, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”
Along with the new golf course, these approvals include an expansive golf training facility and practice facility, 73 additional hotel rooms, and 50 golf cottages, and a myriad of additional amenities. Upon completion, Southworth’s assets within the resort will total more than 200 rooms and seven food and beverage outlets to support the 36 holes of golf along with the surrounding acclaimed courses.
Southworth has sought out these expansion permits with the goal of partnering with a world-class hospitality partner to create a resort destination with broad appeal and generous amenity sets that offer something for everyone and expand interest in this beautiful location. Preliminary discussions are underway.
The new golf course sits, in part, on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and will be created and maintained using the same sustainable practices in use on the existing course. An unwavering dedication to preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of this special landscape has proven successful at Machrihanish Dunes, as evidenced by the re-emergence and flourishing of a number of wildlife and plant species. The new 18-hole routing will meet Machrihanish Dunes in the linksland along the ocean’s edge and meander its way through the rugged dunescape and into the foothills, creating a unique design that features a mix of awe-inspiring views, dramatic elevation changes and traditional seaside links.
Eleanor Brown, director of sustainability with Southworth, said: “Southworth believes it is paramount that we support and protect the communities and environments where we operate, ensuring we keep each club setting spectacular for generations to come. Being stewards of land and community means operating with a sustainability-first mindset from ideation through the execution of any project or initiative. It also means supporting the communities in which we operate, through local hiring and training, philanthropic initiatives and more.”
The project has included significant input from the local community through regular contact and focus groups. The project aims to not only be respectful to its surroundings but also go a step further by increasing the area of dune vegetation habitat.
To ensure a wealth of species thrive, Southworth will partner with NatureScot on a long-term habitat management plan for the lifetime of the golf course, in keeping with the successful model in place at Machrihanish Dunes.
One of the largest teaching facilities in the UK is planned for the site, with indoor and outdoor practice bays, and a nine-acre short-game area. To complement the golf amenities, a new sports and racquet centre will provide visitors with state-of-the-art tennis, pickleball and football facilities.
The development will also include an approximately 35,000-square-foot clubhouse with a 150-seat restaurant and a large function room that will host up to 250 guests – making it ideal for weddings and corporate events. The clubhouse will also be home to an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness area and spa for members to use at their leisure.
These additions join the historic Ugadale Hotel, which sits just steps from the “Best Starting Hole in Golf” and the Old Tom Morris Pub, and the captivating Royal Hotel, which is located in the heart of Campbelltown and overlooks its impressive harbour, among the components of a resort steeped in history and situated at one of the world’s most beautiful and preserved locations.
Southworth added: “We will ensure the pure and authentic surroundings of Machrihanish remain, while creating a significant boost to the local economy, not only through the creation of hundreds of jobs upon completion, but through utilising the skillsets of a myriad of local companies,” Southworth adds.
“We remain hopelessly in love with Machrihanish Dunes – the place, the people and the golf experience.”
By Alistair Dunsmuir
September 12, 2024 10:53
Second golf course in store for Machrihanish Dunes
11th September TOURISM
By Kristy Dorsey Business Correspondent @KristyDorsey
A second championship links golf course is to be built at Machrihanish Dunes as part of a major resort expansion that will also include the addition of a third luxury hotel and 50 new golf cottages.
Planning permission for the overhaul has been granted to Southworth, the privately-held US owner of The Village at Machrihanish Dunes in Argyll. The new seaside links course will be developed in the same manner as Machrihanish Dunes, which has been dubbed "one of the most natural golf courses in the world" and was the first GEO-certified golf course in the UK.
Renowned Scottish dunes golf course set for major expansion (Image: Southworth)
“Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape,” president Tommy Southworth said.
“In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, a world top 100 links designed by Old Tom Morris, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”
Along with the new golf course approval has also been granted for one of the largest teaching
The development will further include a 35,000sq ft clubhouse with a 150-seat restaurant and a large function room that will host up to 250 guests. The clubhouse will also be home to an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness area and spa.
Upon completion, the resort will total more than 200 rooms and seven food and beverage outlets to support the 36 holes of golf and other amenities.
The 10th green at Machrihanish Dunes (Image: Southworth)
“We will ensure the pure and authentic surroundings of Machrihanish remain, while creating a significant boost to the local economy, not only through the creation of hundreds of jobs upon completion, but through utilising the skillsets of a myriad of local companies,” Mr Southworth added.
“We remain hopelessly in love with Machrihanish Dunes – the place, the people and the golf experience.”
TOURISM GOLF BUSINESS LEISURE
SPORT TRAVEL SCOTLAND
Planning permission in principle granted for new Machrihanish resort
Campbeltown Courier News Sep 12, 2024 by Andrew
Galloway
Planning permission in principle has been granted by council chiefs for a 75-bedroom hotel in Machrihanish as well as 50 lodges.
The proposed developments are part of a planned Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club expansion. Photograph: Kintyre Development Company.
The proposal by the Kintyre Development Company for land north-west of Clochkeil Cottages also includes a restaurant and leisure hub, golf clubhouse and shop.
The plans attracted 27 expressions of support from the local community, with only two objections.
Residents expressing support remarked that the proposed facility “will promote all year round tourism within Kintyre and bring major job opportunities to Campbeltown”.
The proposal by the Kintyre Development Company for land north-west of Clochkeil Cottages also includes a restaurant and leisure hub, golf clubhouse and shop.
The plans attracted 27 expressions of support from the local community, with only two objections.
Residents expressing support remarked that the proposed facility “will promote all year round tourism within Kintyre and bring major job opportunities to Campbeltown”.
And Argyll and Bute Council planning officers have now decided to award planning permission in principle.
A design and access statement, submitted with the application last year, said: “The hotel block sits to the far north of the built development site in an L-shaped configuration around the main entrance/lift/stair core.
“Double and twin bedrooms are arranged along a central corridor with an accessible bedroom including en suite provided at each level in close proximity to the lift core.
“A three-storey wing faces east and west to take advantage of views out over both golf courses whereas the two-storey wing facing north and south offers a reduced façade towards the A83 as it rounds Westport.
“The building is configured as a large barn type structure with areas of glazing grouped into larger apertures that reflects the building scale.
“The clubhouse is the central hub for the site and incorporates guest check in and reception, golf clubhouse, restaurant and function room as well as pool, spa, plant and staff facilities.
“With such a large accommodation schedule it is important that the building doesn’t dominate the site. For that reason the various uses are split in both plan and section.
“For example most of the service spaces are located to the east side of the building overlooking the parking. The larger public areas are located to the west side of the building and have areas of glazing that respond to the views and aspect.
“The pool, spa, gym and plant spaces are dug into a basement storey where there is less requirement for natural lighting.
“The south gable wall of the pool is glazed and opens out onto a sun terrace and infinity pool shaded below the building overhang created by the dining room above.”
Read the Campbeltown Courier next week for more information from the developers about their expansion plans.
Machrihanish Dunes to add second course and expand resort offering
10.03am 12th September 2024 - Course Development
Southworth, a Boston-based company specialising in the development and management of clubs and residential communities, has unveiled plans for a significant resort expansion to The Village at Machrihanish Dunes in Scotland and is actively vetting hospitality investors and operators regarding potential partnerships.
The expansion project will also include the construction of a second links course to sit alongside the world-renowned Machrihanish Dunes course designed by David McLay Kidd.
Along with the new golf course, the resort has planning permission to build an expansive new golf academy, 73 additional hotel rooms, 50 golf cottages, and a myriad of additional amenities.
The venue currently offers two hotels, five restaurants and pubs, and eight cottages.
Upon completion, Southworth’s assets within the resort will total more than 200 rooms and seven food and beverage outlets to support the 36 holes of golf.
Tommy Southworth, President of Southworth, said: “Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape.
“In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, a world top 100 links designed by Old Tom Morris, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”
The new golf course sits, in part, on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and will be created and maintained using the same sustainable practices in use on the existing course. An unwavering dedication to preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of this special landscape has proven successful at Machrihanish Dunes, as evidenced by the re-emergence and flourishing of a number of wildlife and plant species.
The new 18-hole routing will meet Machrihanish Dunes in the linksland along the ocean’s edge and meander its way through the rugged dunescape and into the foothills, creating a unique design that features a mix of awe-inspiring views, dramatic elevation changes and traditional seaside links.
A second course is planned to join Machrihanish Dunes
Eleanor Brown, Director of Sustainability with Southworth, said: “Southworth believesit is paramount that we support and protect the communities and environments where we operate, ensuring we keep each club setting spectacular for generations to come. Being stewards of land and community means operating with a sustainability-first mindset from ideation through the execution of any project or initiative. It also means supporting the communities in which we operate, through local hiring and training, philanthropic initiatives and more.”
The project has included significant input from the local community through regular contact and focus groups. The project aims to not only be respectful to its surroundings but also go a step further by increasing the area of dune vegetation habitat. To ensure a wealth of species thrive, Southworth will partner with NatureScot on a long-term habitat management plan for the lifetime of the golf course, in keeping with the successful model in place at Machrihanish Dunes.
One of the largest teaching facilities in the UK is planned for the site, with indoor and outdoor practice bays, and a nine-acre short-game area. To complement the golf amenities, a new sports and racquet centre will provide visitors with state-of-the-art tennis, pickleball and football facilities.
The development will also include an approximately 35,000-square-foot clubhouse with a 150seat restaurant and a large function room that will host up to 250 guests. The clubhouse will also be home to an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness area and spa for members to use at their leisure.
These additions join the historic Ugadale Hotel, the Old Tom Morris Pub, and the Royal Hotel, which is located in the heart of Campbelltown.
Southworth added: “We will ensure the pure and authentic surroundings of Machrihanish remain, while creating a significant boost to the local economy, not only through the creation of hundreds of jobs upon completion, but through utilising the skillsets of a myriad of local companies. We remain hopelessly in love with Machrihanish Dunes – the place, the people and the golf experience.”
David MacLay Kidd / Machrihanish Dunes / Southworth Development / Tommy Southworth
MACHRIHANISH DUNES: NACHHALTIGES LINKS-GOLF AUS DEM BILDERBUCH
MARTIN ANGERER 10. SEPTEMBER 2024
Mit einem nachhaltigen Ansatz, der Einbindung der lokalen Gemeinschaft und erstklassigen Golf- und Freizeitangeboten setzt das Machrihanish Dunes Erweiterungsprojekt neue Maßstäbe auf der Kintyre-Halbinsel.
Die Machrihanish Dunes auf der Kintyre-Halbinsel sind bereits ein beliebtes Ziel für Golfliebhaber. Doch mit dem neuen Erweiterungsprojekt steht die Region vor einem Wandel, der Schottlands Ruf als Golferparadies weiter festigen könnte. Das Herzstück der Erweiterung ist ein neuer, an der Küste gelegener Links-Kurs, der nach den gleichen nachhaltigen Prinzipien gestaltet und gepflegt wird wie der bestehende Golfplatz. Diese Maßnahmen schonen die Umwelt und bewahren die natürliche Schönheit des Geländes.
Nachhaltigkeit als Leitgedanke
Der neue Links-Kurs wird wie der bestehende Platz unter Anwendung nachhaltiger Praktiken gepflegt. Der Einsatz von Chemikalien wird auf ein Minimum reduziert, und die natürliche Landschaft bleibt weitgehend unberührt. Dies gewährleistet nicht nur ein authentisches Golferlebnis, sondern auch den langfristigen Schutz der Umwelt.
Stärkung der lokalen Wirtschaft
Das Projekt bringt nicht nur Golfer in die Region, sondern stärkt auch die lokale Wirtschaft. Die Planungen wurden in enger Zusammenarbeit mit der lokalen Gemeinschaft entwickelt, um sicherzustellen, dass das Vorhaben die Bedürfnisse der Anwohner berücksichtigt. Hunderte Arbeitsplätze werden geschaffen, und zahlreiche lokale Unternehmen werden in die Bau- und Entwicklungsarbeiten eingebunden.
Eine neue Sport- und Freizeitdestination
Neben dem neuen Golfplatz wird ein modernes Sport- und Freizeitzentrum errichtet, das Tennis-, Pickleballund Fußballplätze, Fitnessbereiche und ein Spa umfasst. Damit entwickelt sich Machrihanish Dunes zu einem vielfältigen Reiseziel, das über den Golfsport hinausgeht und Sportbegeisterte sowie Familien anspricht.
Erstklassige Golftrainingsmöglichkeiten
Geplant ist zudem eines der größten Golftrainingszentren Großbritanniens. Mit Indoor- und Outdoor-Übungsplätzen und einem weitläufigen Kurzspielbereich bietet es Golfern aller Spielstärken optimale Trainingsbedingungen.
Mehr Komfort für Gäste
Nach Abschluss der Bauarbeiten wird das Resort über 200 Zimmer, darunter 50 Golf-Cottages, sowie sieben Restaurants und Bars verfügen. Diese Erweiterungen ermöglichen es, mehr Besucher zu empfangen und ihnen gleichzeitig erstklassigen Komfort zu bieten.
Fazit: Ein Projekt für die Zukunft
Das Erweiterungsprojekt von Machrihanish Dunes setzt Maßstäbe in Sachen Nachhaltigkeit, Gemeinschaft und Qualität. Es stärkt die Region, zieht Golfer und Sportbegeisterte an und bewahrt gleichzeitig die natürliche Schönheit der Kintyre-Halbinsel.
