A project to extend Golf Course Ahaus from 27 to 36 holes is close to completion.

The work is being led by golf course architect Rainer Preissmann, a past president of the European Institute of Golf Course Architects, at the club near Alstätte, Germany.

Taking place over several construction phases, seven new holes have been created on a plot of land to the north of the existing course.

The new holes have been built on former agricultural land, with a series of ponds sitting at the centre of the site. These ponds come into play on five of the new holes.

Work has also been carried out on parts of the existing course, with new holes created here to bring the total number up to 36.

The creation of the new holes within the existing course is now complete, with the final touches being made to the seven newly built golf holes ahead of a planned opening this summer.

“The selection of grass species and plants was based on the local situation,” said Preissmann. “To support ecological enhancement, additional wetland areas with different water levels based on rainfall and changing ground water level have been created. This will offer, together with the ponds, additional habitat areas for the native flora and fauna, but also add interest from a golfing perspective.”