The new holes at Whittington only opened a few weeks before we played.
Understandably, there are mixed views. Whittington was a well loved heathland course and, changes as dramatic as those required here, are always going to bewilder those who have admired the the original course for as long as they can remember.
However, the design and layout of the new holes is generally regarded as good. I am pleased to say they have not gone for a quick fix of planting bushes and trees to create a division between holes just because it needs one. The long term plan is to create proper heathland conditions - open with heather as the main feature and protection. (those of you who have played Walton Heath will appreciate this)
Heather does not establish quickly and it will be a few years before the new holes don't look like new holes any more.
The other good news, as far as I am concerned, is that the other part of the long term plan is to restore a more original heathland look and feel to the old part of the course, that has been retained. This will involve the removal of many trees, that are more in keeping with a parkland layout than true heathland. Again - this will receive mixed reviews.
My view is wait and see - I think they are on the right track (a savage pun I know -given that the whole reason for this upheaval is HS2)
I will re-book Whittington for Teetours next year and I hope to see the gradual establishment of a super facility.
