Edwards and Rock at work in Surrey

6 February 2012

Playgolf's Roger Hyder (left) and Peter Goodbun (second right) with Rock and Edwards

English architect James Edwards has begun work on a renovation of the 108 year old Leatherhead Golf Club in Surrey.

Edwards is being assisted on the project by European Tour star Robert Rock, currently among the hottest properties in professional golf after his recent victory over Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy at the HSBC event in Abu Dhabi.

Course owner Playgolf World, who bought the club in 2010, commissioned Edwards to look at bunker renovations and restorations, plus drainage issues. Leatherhead lost its last two holes, plus the original clubhouse, when the nearby M25 was built in 1983, but otherwise the general layout has changed little over the last fifty years.

Edwards said: “The remit includes bunker renovations and reopening of bunkers that have been closed over the last 80 years or so. We are also opening some of the old ditches and ponds to help with drainage, adding several features and tidying up the treeline as well as working on planting. This is the start of a five year renovation programme.”

Asked about Rock’s involvement, Playgolf’s Roger Hyder said: “Robert is an old friend of James’s and is keen to get involved with his company and design work, for when he eventually hangs up his playing boots. His input has been invaluable as we are trying to toughen up the course for longer hitting golfers.”