South Ayrshire's municipal golf courses are experiencing continued growth in participation, visitor numbers, and income, according to a report presented to the Service and Partnerships Performance Panel. However, councillors have raised concerns about staffing levels, financial sustainability, and the impact of weather on course operations.
Strong Recovery Post-Pandemic
The report, delivered by Alistair Mutch, Service Lead for Sports and Leisure, highlighted a robust recovery across the council's golf service, which manages eight golf courses and three clubhouse facilities. Membership levels have surpassed pre-pandemic figures, and visitor numbers are rising as South Ayrshire solidifies its reputation as a premier golfing destination.
Season ticket membership increased by nearly 14% over the past year, from 5,121 to 5,826 members. Under-18 memberships saw a remarkable 54% rise, from 511 to 786. Commercial performance also improved in 2025/26, with non-member rounds increasing by 2,506 year-on-year and a further 10% growth forecast for the current season. Average green fees rose from £22.24 to £24.75, and uptake of hotelier and tour operator schemes increased by 10%. Officers attributed the sector's success partly to the legacy of The Open at Troon in 2024.
Financial Sustainability Questions
Despite the positive trends, councillors sought more detail on the financial viability of individual courses. SNP Councillor George Weir remarked, "It is certainly a very positive report and it appears that participation and income are moving in the right direction. What I am less clear about is whether the strategy is sufficient to address the financial position of individual courses. For example, will any of the courses that currently operate at a loss move into profit, and if so, when?"
Mr Mutch responded that additional performance information could be provided to members. He noted a challenge: "Season-ticket holders have access to all eight courses. As a result, membership income cannot easily be attributed to individual courses. Visitor income is easier to allocate because it relates directly to rounds played at specific courses."
Clubhouse Facilities and Staffing
Councillor Ian Cochrane questioned the absence of specific performance targets in the report and sought an update on the future use of clubhouse facilities, including the Stables venue at Belleisle. Golf Co-ordinator Kieron Gallagher confirmed that the Stables, closed during the pandemic, is now available for community use and events. He said, "The Stables and the Royal Clubhouse remain available for community events, private functions, birthday parties, social gatherings and other special occasions. The first wedding was held at the Stables last year and was considered a success. We continue to welcome enquiries and bookings from community groups and members of the public."
The meeting also heard that opening hours at golf facility cafés have been extended following previous concerns. Panel Chair, Labour Councillor Philip Saxton, asked about difficulties recruiting staff, noting that extended hours would be impacted by existing shortages. An officer responded, "Following the comments made at full council, opening hours have already been extended. The cafés now remain open until 5pm during weekdays and 6pm at weekends. While there are staffing pressures, we believe these changes will improve the customer experience and generate additional income."
Investment and Weather Challenges
The report highlighted continued investment in the golf estate, including £50,000 for drainage improvements at Dalmilling Golf Course and £35,000 secured for safer walking routes at Darley Golf Course. Independent agronomy reports found greens at Belleisle Park and Troon Links to be performing well. However, weather remains a significant challenge. During the year, there were 189 days of full or partial course closures across the estate, averaging 27 closure days per course.
Service Review and Tourism Growth
Members were informed that a wider review of the council's sport and leisure services is underway. Jamie Tait, Service Lead for Thriving Communities, said, "Sport and Leisure Services have commenced a wider service redesign process. As part of that work, we are reviewing the golf estate, wider Sport and Leisure assets, operational priorities and staffing arrangements. A report containing proposals will be presented to Cabinet later this year."
He also highlighted continued growth in golf tourism: "I would also highlight the positive increase in visitor numbers. There is ongoing work with partners to further increase visitor play and strengthen South Ayrshire's position as a golfing destination. The current trajectory is very positive and there are opportunities for further growth."
Following discussion, the panel unanimously agreed to note the report and the priorities identified for 2026/27.
