
We hope all members and guests have enjoyed the course throughout the season. The sunny, dry weather meant all 18 holes were open, though the drought conditions did create challenges for our Greenkeeping Team as they worked tirelessly in preparation for The Open Championship. Despite these difficulties, the course remains in excellent condition, and with favourable weather ahead, we are confident that Royal Birkdale will be at its very best for our members, our guests, and the world stage in 2026.
We understand that members may have questions, particularly regarding preparations for The Open, and we hope the FAQs below will help provide clarity. Over the coming months, Sharon will share details of specific dates and times when she will be available in the clubhouse, giving members the opportunity to raise any further queries directly.
Work begins in autumn, and we may close the hole temporarily to expedite progress. If a hole is closed in the winter, the old 14th par 3 will reopen so we maintain 18 playable holes—a benefit of having a 19th hole. Other bunkers scheduled for relocation and reshaping this autumn include the left greenside bunker on the 8th and 11th.
All the posts are now in place. They will naturally fade to be a similar colour to the pots that have been out all season.
There are still some teeing areas that are not finished off around the edges?
The turfing work will take place this Autumn or Spring 2026.
Branches will be trimmed, and work will extend to the ditch area. Tree cutting will not occur until nesting season has concluded, so this task is scheduled for the winter.
Our intention is to enhance sand scrape areas by planting additional marram grass to promote sand stabilisation and minimise erosion. These scrapes are temporary, resulting from sand extraction for the construction of new tees rather than intended as design features, and will progressively be restored through natural vegetation.
Although maintaining the practice ground is important, recent months have required us to prioritise course work. We will continue regular divot repairs and top dressing in the area.
We plan to install an artificial strip in front of the new practice pad to allow us to rest/protect the turf during high-traffic events, such as charity days.
Plans are in place to move the practice ball dispenser and washer closer to the practice area, which should address many concerns. This season required temporary solutions, with ball washing done every other day and some damage occurring during dune maintenance. We aim to provide higher quality balls next season.
Overall, the course committee aims to maintain a minimalist aesthetic throughout the golf course by removing any nonessential furniture and signage.
The course committee has included new furniture and associated costs in the 2026 budget. Items listed are rakes, practice area pins and flags, broken tee caddies for par 3 holes, signage, rubbish bins, and a first tee information board.
Members have provided favourable feedback regarding the sample practice putting green pins, which require only teak oil for maintenance instead of annual sanding and varnishing. Some members were initially concerned about their tall height, while others noted the convenience of not needing to bend down to remove the flags. The plan is to purchase a complete set.
Members have received information about two sample spiked flags placed in the chipping area, which give golfers the option to personalise their chip shots. These flags are currently being trialled, and feedback is encouraged. The proposed plan is to use a combination of ½ flags and spiked flags made from similar materials, replacing the current large standard flags. This will help to differentiate the chipping area from other parts of the course.
The course committee reviewed several possible locations; however, despite concerns about the current appearance of the nets, the existing site remains the most suitable choice. As a result, we are planning to enclose the nets within a purpose-built structure, potentially modelled after the first tee starters’ hut. Incorporating rough grasses on the roof will help blend the facility into its surroundings when viewed from the 9th green, thereby enhancing the overall quality and aesthetic of the area.
The course committee agreed that the area does not require the marking of red stakes. Moving the slack area closer to the 16th tees has been successful in allowing it to run dry. It is now a general play area for ruling purposes.
Geo-fencing for buggies will be enhanced to reduce wear and tear on the course, especially near green surrounds. Some locations, such as the 3rd and 8th holes, currently have limited options for buggy routing. Efforts are underway to establish improved buggy routes in these specific areas.
Plans are in place to install concrete bases for the benches. Benches not currently positioned on the course will be set out after this process is finished. The Heritage Committee has provided a list of benches and their intended locations. Work is scheduled to begin either in Autumn or Spring 2026.
It is disappointing that we have seen substantial divots around the new chipping area of late. In an effort to maintain a minimalist aesthetic, we have previously avoided installing signage, trusting that golfers would use the area exclusively for chipping rather than high pitch or full shots. Unfortunately, it will be necessary to introduce signage to help preserve this designated space.
As we intensify preparations for the Open Championship in 2026, many of the tasks identified—particularly those related to agronomy—align with our ongoing commitment to maintaining the course at a standard worthy of its distinguished reputation as both a members’ club and championship venue. Outlined below are key focus areas that have been discussed in collaboration with the R&A.