Wentworth, host venue of the BMW PGA Championship, is to receive a multi-million pound investment in its three championship courses and its ancillary facilities, as the Surrey-based club seeks to build on its reputation as one of the country’s finest golf resorts.
The announcement of the investment programme came after a period of consultation undertaken by Wentworth Club’s executive team and its Chinese owner, Reignwood Group.
A key part of the programme will see a major renovation of the club’s iconic West Course, carried out in association with Ernie Els Design. Els, working with Wentworth’s former owner, Richard Caring, was responsible for the changes to the course back in 2009, which included the controversial new look to the 18th hole.
The club’s other two courses, the Edinburgh and the East, are also to receive makeovers. The East is to be restored to its original Harry Colt design, while the Edinburgh is also to be enhanced, alongside a state-of-the-art practice facility.
In addition to the investment in the golf courses, the renovation project will also include a total refurbishment of both the main clubhouse and the tennis & health club facilities.
A new membership structure is also to take effect from 1st April 2017, with the current structure replaced with a family-based membership.
The upgrade will begin next year under the guidance of the club’s chief executive, Stephen Gibson, who said: “Over the past nine decades Wentworth Club has become synonymous with the world’s most prestigious championships, played by the world’s best golfers. Since 1924 it has been a pioneering market leader in golf. History has been, and continues to be, made here.”
He added: “The original vision for Wentworth was to set new standards for both a golf course and a residential family community. Today, over 90 years later, our announced investment will enable us to build on our prestigious heritage and lay the foundations of the future success of the club. All of the improvements will ensure a club of exceptional quality, and will set unparalleled standards on and off the course. We are committed to investing significant sums to fulfil our vision and improve the facilities throughout the club.”