Last Updated on October 16, 2023
An Overview of Brandon Wood Golf Course
Situated amidst the lush countryside of Warwickshire, the Brandon Wood Golf Course was a serene sporting haven for golf enthusiasts. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the River Avon, it offered a championship standard 18-hole parkland course that stretched over 6,500 yards and had a par of 72. Its unique design and exceptional course conditions provided a rewarding challenge for both novices and seasoned golfers.
As a well-rounded golfing destination, Brandon Wood prided itself on its comprehensive full membership package. Members could enjoy unlimited golf all year round, official handicap, priority tee-time bookings, and exclusive member-only events. In addition, they received complimentary access to health and fitness facilities city-wide and a host of discounts on various services. The club offered an impressive variety of membership packages and green fee options, ensuring there was something for everyone.
Closure Announcement and Its Impact
Sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic and financial difficulties led to an unforeseen turn of events. On 2nd December 2020, a joint statement by Coventry Sports Trust and Coventry City Council announced the indefinite closure of the Brandon Wood Golf Course. As a result, all facilities were closed, and members were prohibited from accessing the site. Memberships were cancelled and any outstanding dues were refunded.
The closure of the course significantly impacted the members and staff of the golf course. A consultation period began for staff affected by the decision, adding to the growing list of job losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, members and visitors were left without a go-to venue for golfing activities, forcing them to look elsewhere for alternative facilities.
Future Prospects
Following the closure, the Coventry City Council began an appraisal to evaluate future options for the facility. These include exploring whether operating a golf course can still be sustained or if the site would be better used for alternative purposes. The decision to close the course was not an easy one, but given the financial constraints of the city council, it was a necessary step.
The council reiterated its commitment to promoting sport and wellbeing in the community and cited its £60 million investment in new facilities in recent years as evidence of this commitment. It also continues to run its ‘Keep Coventry Moving’ campaign to inspire citizens to stay active.
Despite the closure of Brandon Wood Golf Course, the Moat House Leisure Centre in Wood End, also operated by Coventry Sports Trust, remains unaffected and continues its operations as planned.
A Legacy That Will Be Remembered
The Brandon Wood Golf Course was more than just a sporting facility – it was a community of people who shared a love for golf. While the course has been shut down, its legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of the people who spent countless hours there, whether perfecting their swing, participating in tournaments, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside setting.
The decision to close the course, while difficult, is a reflection of the trying times faced by many organizations amid the global pandemic. However, it is hoped that the closure of the golf course will pave the way for a new chapter for the site and the local community.
While it is the end of the road for the Brandon Wood Golf Course, the spirit of the golfing community it fostered will live on. Its closure will serve as a reminder of the challenging times we live in, but with every ending comes a new beginning. As we bid farewell to this beloved golf course, we look forward to what the future holds for this historic site.
I know for a fact that a golfing company has come in with a bid to buy the land and bring the course back to life.
Also a few years back there were rumours muted that Brandon was to be swapped with Stoneleigh Deer Park. Surely for the council that was an opportunity missed.
So come on Coventry City Council. What are your plans. By the looks of the overhead map shots it’s still being manicured as a golf course.
I walked the dog round the course yesterday only to find crawler tractor tracks and a digger where soil samples were being taken. I asked the contractor what they were doing. They said that they were trying to find out how deep the sand and gravel is on the site so it makes me wonder if the great Coventry Council are going to extract the sand and gravel and obviously destroy the site !!!!