Hassocks Golf Club to lose 9 holes to houses

Hassocks Golf Club says it has been running at a loss for many years and has only avoided closure because of substantial ongoing subsidies from its owner. Now it has revealed that it is going to lose 9 holes to houses.

Club director of golf Mike Ovett said this week: “There are no longer any funds available to continue this subsidy.”

The club plans to reduce the number of holes from 18 to 9 and free up the land for the development. This is all getting a bit too close to home for our liking, as Hassock GC is literally just down the road from GolfPunk Towers, and we’ve played it many a time.

An initial application for planning permission has been submitted to Mid Sussex District Council for up to 130 houses on the site, a replacement golf clubhouse, a new driving range and comprehensive landscaping works.

Mike Ovett said: “Proceeds from the sale of the housing site will enable the survival of the existing golf club business as a re-modelled 9-hole course with an all-weather driving range along with a new purpose built club house.

“The new club house will incorporate a bar, restaurant, pro-shop and multi-use function rooms that will be available for external functions.

“The proposal will safeguard the existing 21 jobs and will create new employment opportunities.

We’re always sad to see another course go under concrete, especially one so local. But at least there will still be 9 holes to have a foozle on, and a proper driving range. 

For more on 9 hole golf click here or on the image below to read more about the R&A’s plans for a pre Open Championship 9 hole event.