East Lothian Council backs £150,000 plan to save Scotland's oldest golf course
Scotland’s oldest golf course is was not in good condition last summer, according to the council leader
A £150,000 bill to save Scotland’s oldest golf course has been described as ‘chicken feed’ when compared to what it brings to its home town.
East Lothian Council’s common good committee this week agreed to back plans to replace Musselburgh Links Old Course’s water system after being told the current one was causing damaging the turf.
The proposals, which will go before full council for final approval, will replace the source of the water — currently the River Esk, with a separate mains
It came after staff had to switch off the irrigation system and water the course by hand last summer as visitors complained about the condition of the turf which it is believed was damaged by the high sodium content of its supply.
At a meeting of the common good committee, councillor Andrew Forrest, local ward member, pointed to the impact the course had for the town and the wider community.
He said: “It is known as the cradle of golf. It is the oldest golf course in the world and if you look back Mary Queen of Scots is said to have played on it.
“In 1811 the first ever women’s golf tournament was held by the fishwives of Musselburgh and it is the original Open championship course.
“I know it is a lot of money but in terms of its history and what we are doing for Musselburgh it is chicken feed to keep this course going.”
And council leader Norman Hampshire said: “Something needs to be done. The condition of the golf course last summer was not good and many visitors come from across the world and to see it like that is not good either.”
Council officers propose a new irrigation system which will cost an estimated £150,000.
They are also asking for funding for an apprentice green keepers to boost the course’s current team and future proof it. It is anticipated annual maintenance of a new system will cost around £5,000 while the cost of the new staff member is estimated at £36,000.
The committee unanimously backed the proposals with a final decision to be made at the next full council meeting in December.