Royal Dornoch Golf Club, where the legendary Donald Ross got his start in golf, has a new 99-year lease with The Highland Council. Discussions on a fresh agreement for the use of Common Good Land began before the pandemic struck.
Now, with a new lease signed off, members will be consulted on the potential for a new multi-million-pound clubhouse.
“We are delighted to have concluded a formal agreement with The Highland Council, with welcome support from the Dornoch Area Community Council,” said Club captain Professor David Bellhe. “This represents an important chapter in the history of our Club which dates to 1877, although we know golf was being played on the links land long before then.’’
Royal Dornoch’s previous lease ran to 2072, but a few years ago, Bell said, the Club was advised that some changes would be required if it intended to build a new clubhouse on the Common Good Land at any stage of the lease
“It is very early days, but we can now, with confidence, say we are allowed to build a new clubhouse should that be the route members wish the club to take going forward,’’ Bell said.
Under the terms of the new lease, the Club will £25,000 annual payment going up to £50,000 on a sliding scale, depending on visitor numbers.
“We have been thrilled with the demand from visiting golfers from around the world making the journey here since travel restrictions were lifted,’’ Bell said.. “The club certainly anticipates paying the £50,000 figure each year and that money will be dispersed for the benefit of the Dornoch community through the Common Good Fund.
“Golf tourism plays a huge role in the local and regional economy and the town’s sporting facilities have already benefited substantially from measures designed to make certain there is scope for any new clubhouse.’’
Photo Courtesy of Royal Dornoch Golf Club