Golf has been played on our downland course since 1896. Excellent drainage and professional maintenance guarantee play all year round, always on the main greens, and usually on grass tees. As a result, members get full value from their subscription and many individual visitors, societies and other events are attracted to the course.
The elevated location of the course provides panoramic views of the Sussex countryside in all compass directions. The challenge presented by the 6,224-yard course is enhanced by undulating fairways and greens and by the elements. Members and visitors have access to a five-bay driving range and practice chipping and putting greens.
The shortage of water in the UK, and particularly in the south, has become a trend rather than a blip.
In years to come golf course management for the majority will necessitate the use of less water, fertilisers and pesticides. In fact, directives coming out of the EU already place mandatory restrictions on the use of pesticides, and more are expected relating to use of water, waste management etc.
Golfers will be interested to hear that Lewes has already taken proactive steps to reduce dramatically the use of water, nutrients and pesticides.
After considerable consultations a long-term plan has been adopted which includes overseeding the greens with a drought resistant grass seed. This fescue grass is also more tolerant to disease. It is not intended to introduce irrigation to the fairways, as this process would not only use more water, but would in the longer term reduce the strength of the natural grasses that we are fortunate to have at Lewes.
The new putting green was laid as turf, and provides a good indication of what the greens will look like in the longer term.
