Forres Golf Club and Moray Council planning future management of the course
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THE FUTURE of a 131-year-old local institution is being discussed by its managers.
Representatives of Forres Golf Club and Moray Council hope to agree on updated management of Common Good asset, Forres golf course, which has been run by local golfers on behalf of the local authority for the last 25 years.
Club captain Murray Drummond explained: "We are updating our current arrangements to ensure we can continue to run the course for the people of Forres in an efficient manner.
"The current agreement is outdated and both Moray Council and ourselves are working to put in place an updated version to take account of changes in practice and legislation."
James Braid designed and created the original nine holes in 1889 and in 1912 the course was expanded to 18 holes by Willie Park.
The 6236-yard, par-70 course has hosted the Scottish Professional Championship, the Northern Open and the Scottish Young Professionals Championships. A new management and catering team is cultivating a growing reputation for the clubhouse for outings, parties and meals.
The course is already well known for being beautifully maintained and picturesque with spectacular views of Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth.
"The course was gifted to the people of Forres," added Mr Drummond. "The golfers have managed it under the present arrangement for many years and we continue to support the concept of a community owned asset.
"Looking to the future, it may help to formalise these arrangements under a long term lease from Moray Council."
A Moray Council spokeswoman confirmed discussions have been ongoing since summer 2018.
She added: "Once a provisional agreement has been reached between all parties involved, a report detailing these proposed arrangements will go to the appropriate council committee to be discussed."
