A recent report reveals that Scottish golf clubs have experienced a decrease in membership over the past year. According to The Scotsman, while specific figures haven’t been disclosed in formal documents prepared for the governing body’s upcoming Annual General Meeting, the report confirms a “slight decrease compared to the prior year” for the period ending September 2024.
The membership decline comes amid mounting financial challenges for golf clubs across Scotland. Last year saw the permanent closure of both Hirsel Golf Club and Torrance Park, while numerous other venues have reported significant difficulties:
- Kirkcaldy Golf Club developed emergency survival plans
- Scotscraig Golf Club and Musselburgh Golf Club convened Emergency General Meetings to discuss their futures
- Craigie Hill Golf Club submitted an application to downsize from 18 to 9 holes
Several additional Scottish venues reportedly face potential closure threats in 2025.
Scottish Golf has acknowledged these concerning trends, stating they are “acutely aware” of the financial pressures confronting clubs nationwide. The membership decline has underscored the severity of these challenges.
In response, the organization has implemented several measures. Stakeholders approved an increase in the affiliation fee from £15.75 to £17.50 last May, enabling the deployment of a regional development team across the country to provide targeted support to struggling clubs.
“Income from affiliation fees experienced a slight decrease compared to the prior year, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by member clubs and the broader golf community,” states the AGM report. “On the expenditure side, the organisation was impacted by a range of wider economic factors, including inflationary pressures and rising operational costs.”
Despite these obstacles, Scottish Golf emphasized its commitment to responsible financial management: “The organisation has maintained its commitment to prudent financial management, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support the delivery of strategic objectives and sustain long-term financial stability.”
The report further acknowledges the complex economic landscape: “The team at Scottish Golf remains acutely aware of the financial pressures impacting member clubs, particularly in the current economic climate. Rising operational costs and the changing dynamics of the golf industry require ongoing adaptability and collaboration.”
Looking forward, Scottish Golf plans to strengthen its engagement with key stakeholders: “To address these challenges, the organisation continues to engage in regular, constructive dialogue with industry stakeholders and sporting partners, reinforcing its commitment to the long-term development of golf in Scotland.”
The organization concluded with an optimistic outlook: “Looking ahead, Scottish Golf is committed to building on the progress made during the year, continuing to deliver value to its members, and driving the growth and sustainability of golf throughout the country.”
