Trolleys

The rain over the last six weeks has been at record highs with nearly 300mm (12inches) falling since the 19thDecember. That’s nearly half a year’s rainfall.  Due to this abnormal amount of rain we have taken the unusual step to introduce an Electric Trolley ban. 

I must add It always remains the intention of the Club not to ban electric trolleys except as a very last resort. The fact this is the first time in five years we have introduced this policy is evidence of that. 

(Above is picture of a trial carried out by the EGU looking at impact of trolleys, carrying and Buggies. This photo shows that carrying reduces the wear the most)

We all know that trolleys cause damage mostly because users tend to follow the same routes from tees and around greens while bag carriers are able to spread out and roam freely all over the course which spreads the wear. 

The trolley routes have become worn (see above) from the constant traffic - thus the use of more widespread traffic control measures have been introduced to try and to divert them away from sensitive or crucial parts of each hole using white line or ropes.

The main reason is that our soil does not drain so readily being clay, often leaving it very wet and easily damaged. The grass cover begins to thin as ground temperatures fall and growth comes to a virtual standstill for several months during which it is easily damaged and slow to recover.

 Over the past few years the Club has lengthened several paths to eliminate areas that were prone to heavy wear and further path improvements will continue where necessary.

So why only ban electric trolleys?

Some careless use of electric trolleys causes additional unnecessary damage due to spinning wheels, particularly when starting on a slope and the greater impact on the ground due to their weight. If trolleys are needed by players during winter then lighter weight pull trolleys are preferable to help preserve the course. 

It is generally hoped that everybody who is physicallyable to carry will do so, and encourage their regular playing partners likewise this is when we ask 'Please make every effort to carry your bag'. (If you have a medical certificate you may use electric trolley). 

For those of you who need to use a trolley please could you follow a few handy hints to protect the golf course. 

Go around the greens following the white trolley lines.

Please keep the trolleys away from the areas marked in yellow in the diagram      ( on the aprons, pictured above) 

Keep away from collars 

And green surrounds (these are normally built with a slope). 

•try to reduce the weight in your bag

•be careful on banks and slopes

•spread the wear if possible

•follow the traffic control measures 

My final message would be that as soon as it is practical we will remove all bans of this nature and any type of trolley ban or course closure is always our last resort and it’s our way of protecting the golf course for the season ahead.

Our intention as always is that members can enjoy their golf!

Matt