YOUR VIEWS: ‘Opportunity missed’ over Royal Dornoch clubhouse design

Letter to the Editor from Patrick Argyle, Golspie

The Northern Times in its edition of September 29 carried an article giving details of Royal Dornoch Golf Club’s proposed new club house. (Golfers back £13.9m plans, Page 8). )

In the article Professor David Bell, men’s captain, states that he believes the new building will provide facilities that will match the world class reputation of the celebrated championship course, and I have no reason to doubt that claim.

However, I am shocked and disappointed by the outward appearance of the new building as represented in the artists impression.

It reminded me of old industrial buildings such as Quarry Bank in Cheshire, a textile factoriy of the Industrial Revolution, built in 1784, or indeed some form of railway shed.

I realise that with buildings “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”. However, surely something easier on the eye could be designed which still fulfils the laudable aims of being more spacious, and environmentally friendly?

It is asserted that the proposed new clubhouse will “reflect the standing of the course and make the most of the incredible all-round views”. I can appreciate that, from inside, the building may be superb and I hope that it does make the most of the fabulous views.

However, my fear is that the first impression gained by golfers arriving at the course will be one of being totally underwhelmed by the outward appearance of this new structure and that a rare opportunity to build something that is visually stunning will be missed.

I am sure there are many other golf clubhouses around the world that combine both functionality with beauty of design.

It doesn’t have to be a traditional design, although I am very impressed with the appearance of the nearby developments, Links House and Glensheil .

A modern design utilising cutting edge materials such as steel, glass, polished concrete might also work well.

I am just worried that a great opportunity is being missed and wonder what the membership of the club and the local community feel about the appearance of the building that is being put forward?

I am certainly no expert, but I do enjoy watching “Grand Designs”!

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