Dinsdale Golf Club in Darlington, which was founded in 1910, is set to close this spring.
The current owners – who took over the club in 2018 – wrote to members in February, saying the decision to close the club had been incredibly difficult.
“There is never a perfect way to make these announcements; however, we wanted to write to you personally to let you know that Dinsdale Golf Club will be closing from April 1. Since arriving in 2018, we have poured our hearts into the club, improving the course, enhancing the facilities and rebuilding Dinsdale. The club has been far more than a business to us; it’s been a central part of our lives.
“However, after dedicating ourselves fully to the day-to-day demands, we have come to the decision that now is the right time to step away and prioritise our families and other parts of life that have taken a back seat for far too long.”
In response, a Durham County Golf Union statement said: “The Durham County Golf Union is deeply saddened to be informed by the owners of Dinsdale Golf Club that the club will close at the end of March.
“We understand that the decision has been made because the owners feel the time is right for them to step away and focus on other aspects of their lives, including family and other business interests. It would be inappropriate to speculate on any other reasons for the closure.
“Dinsdale Golf Club has long been regarded as a wonderful golf course and an asset within our union of 43 affiliated clubs. Established in 1910, it has served as an important golfing venue and valued community facility within County Durham for well over a century. Its closure will be keenly felt.
“Our thoughts are very much with the staff and members of Dinsdale at this difficult time. We sincerely hope that the employed members of staff are able to find alternative employment very quickly and are not badly affected for too long.
“We also hope that the members of the club are not lost to the game of golf and are able to find membership at other clubs in the local area, particularly clubs within the Durham County Golf Union, as soon as possible.
“While we are not currently aware of any plans regarding the course and facilities beyond March, we remain hopeful that there may yet be a viable future for the site and that golf could continue to be played there in the years ahead.
“We are fully aware, and appreciative, of the tremendous amount of time, focus, commitment and finance that the current owners have invested in Dinsdale Golf Club since taking it over in 2018. Their endeavours have managed to develop, modernise and improve the course and facilities at the club. We wish them well as they move on.”
First opened with a nine-hole course, the layout at Dinsdale was extended to 18 holes in 1910, before Dr Alister MacKenzie drew plans to enhance the course in 1920. In 2005, David Hemstock reconfigured the course and introduced two new holes on the front nine.
