COURSE CONDITIONS POLICY
In order to maximize golf course availability for members during periods of challenging weather and to assist the Greens staff in ensuring safe movement around the course while protecting vulnerable areas, the club implemented a more structured approach to course access, similar to practices adopted by many golf clubs nationally and locally.
COURSE ACCESS LEVELS
The Club website banner provides instant updates, and more detailed explanations of any required restrictions.
For example, if the course is waterlogged and unsafe for all traffic but partially playable, the course would currently be closed. However, it could be opened with specific restrictions posted on the website banner, such as:
- ‘No Buggies Today’
- ‘Only Holes 4-9 and 15-18 in Play’
- ‘Carrying Only’ as an alternative to blanket closure
To this end, the club introduced four levels of access:
- No Restrictions
- Buggy Use Restricted: Limited to those with medical certificates or blue badge holders requiring a buggy due to disability. No trolley restrictions.
- Electric Trolley Restrictions: Similar to buggy restrictions (medical certificates required). Manual trolleys permitted.
- Course Closed
Each morning, the course is inspected by the Greens staff, and by 7 AM, a level of access will be determined from the four levels and posted on the website homepage.
MEDICAL EXEMPTION
Members unable to play golf without a buggy or electric trolley for medical reasons, must present a copy of their blue badge to the club office. These copies will be securely stored and need to be reproduced annually. Alternatively, a signed doctor’s certificate (form available on the website or from the club office) detailing the reasons why the member cannot play without a trolley or buggy, must be provided.
The certificate should indicate that the member:
- Suffers from a disability within the meaning of Section 6 of the Equality Act 2010 or any statutory modification thereof, OR
- Has a medical or physical condition that precludes carrying golf clubs for a full 18-hole round either permanently or long-term, OR
- Has a medical or physical condition that precludes carrying golf clubs for a full 18-hole round for a period specified by their doctor.
If you need a buggy or powered trolley to play golf and have applied for a medical exemption certificate but do not currently have one, a grace period will be granted to obtain the required documentation.
For further information, please speak with the Pro Shop staff or contact the Club & Course Manager at generalmanager@willesleypark.com.
