18 holes remain but some changes coming to Burlington golf course

There won’t be a reduction in the number of holes at Tyandaga Golf Course but players will see some changes this year and in the future.

After months of speculation that the number of holes would be reduced, Burlington has decided to keep the public course at 18 holes based on the feedback from users and those who live in the neighbouring communities.

This year will see the removal of dead ash trees on the course as well as general tree trimming to improve sightlines. Some trees may be planted to stop errant balls from going onto neighbouring properties. New benches have been ordered and washrooms are being renovated for the start of the golf season.

Teeing area improvements and sand trap alterations will be reviewed.

To enhance the golfer’s experience, a single-use warm-up cage will be available before teeing off and youth golf clinics will be available.

Parking lot construction is underway and will be completed before the end of April.

Other major changes considered include adding cart paths as well as linking hiking trails from Kerncliff Park to Tyandaga.

A Tyandaga committee will also be formed to ensure continuous community input on the improvements of the course, such as reviewing the layout and making recommendations to enhance playability. The committee will be made up of golfers and local area residents

Burlington had considered altering the size of the course due to safety reasons and changing play habits of golfers.

The safety concerns generally focussed on the 18th hole and followed complaints that balls were sailing off the course and smashing into nearby homes. A consultant’s report stated that other holes on the course also presented the same risks. However, in all cases, the safety risks were considered minimal.

Also, the City’s recreation department had indicated that the popularity of shorter, nine-hole courses was on the rise and by making the playing area smaller the land could accommodate other recreational uses by residents.

Those ideas didn’t resonate with the public and as such the course will stay as it is and go under review again in five years.