England Golf offer guidance for spring return

Golf Clubs and golf facilities across Northamptonshire have been handed initial guidance by England Golf on the framework for a return to play in the coming weeks and months.

Following last week’s government announcement of a gradual lifting of coronavirus lockdown restrictions over the spring, the national golf governing body has put together a package of measures to be adhered to.

With golf being one of the first sports to return following the first lockdown in 2020, the authorities are keen to give the public the best opportunity to enjoy the health benefits of playing the game from late March onwards.

The roadmap, which was formed alongside the other golf organisations, including Scottish Golf, Golf Wales and Golf Ireland, means golfers across the country should also be able to enjoy a more stable and safe season.

Although coaching is possible for disability golfers from Monday, March 8th, the starting date for most is Monday, March 29th when courses will be open for golfers to play in fourballs.

Club, county and regional competitions are allowed to take place under strict COVID-19 controls, while outdoor ranges can open, including for one-to-one coaching, group coaching and club fitting.

Catering will be available on a ‘click and collect’ takeaway service until Monday, April 12th, when all professional shops, retail shops and outdoor catering facilities can reopen, subject to the ‘Rule of Six’.

At the same time, changing rooms and all other driving ranges will open, while indoor coaching from professionals will become accessible on a one-to-one basis, including making use of indoor swing studios.

The return steps up again on Monday, May 17th when larger group coaching sessions are allowed and indoor catering facilities can reopen, subject to the ‘Rule of Six’, before all other restrictions end on Monday, June 21st.

With more England Golf updates of the Play Safe Stay Safe guidance expected over the coming weeks, all Golf Clubs in the country will be assessing how their specific facility can return to action this spring.