This was a major redevelopment of the existing Dave Thomas/Seve Ballesteros designed 18-hole golf course, owned by Q Hotels plc.

The contract began in 2007 comprising a 5-hole new construction (holes #4 to #7 and new hole #12) on land which had been used as sheep pasture for centuries and dense pine/birch/oak woodland on a sloping site. Other holes (#1, #8 and #13) were also remodelled during the same contract. This was one of the most demanding construction projects we have worked on – in terms of extreme weather conditions, in particular. Added to this were the difficult site conditions – on a steep hillside with numerous springs creating some challenging drainage solutions, however, the contractor, White Horse, dealt with everything professionally and with great commitment.

The routing of the new holes has opened up stunning views to the north for the golfers, towards the Forth and Clyde Canal in the valley and in the distance, the Kilsyth Hills of Meikle Bin and Earl’s Seat. Also, it is adjacent to a World Heritage Site – The Antonine Wall (part of the Frontiers of the Roman Empire World Heritage site, also listed on the Historic Scotland Schedule of Ancient Monuments).

Photo Credit: JG