The members at BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, have approved a renovation plan developed by Nicklaus Design for its East course.

The project is being led by Chris Cochran and Chad Goetz, working with Troon project manager Ron Despain. The trio’s work aims to modernise bunkers and greens, create more playing options for golfers of all abilities and add length to the existing 7,189-yard layout, while also regrassing the entire course.

Construction is expected to begin in April 2022 and is scheduled for completion in December, with the building of a new learning centre also part of the project scope.

“We not only want to truly enhance the golf course playing characteristics for the club’s members to enjoy day to day, but to make sure the world’s top players would be challenged as Mr Nicklaus was in his 1971 PGA victory,” said Paul Stringer, president of Nicklaus Design. “Our goal is to work in concert with the club to ensure the end product is best-in-class and a reflection of the high standards established at BallenIsles.”

At the practice facilities, all teeing areas, target greens and practice greens will be revamped. A new short-game area will be added, along with a pitch-and-putt course and a large putting green.

“As the club continues to evaluate each area of our offering, we felt there was an immediate need and wonderful opportunity to enhance our historic course and truly provide a best-in-class practice experience and facilities for our members,” said BallenIsles Country Club general manager and chief operating officer Ryan Walls. “The link to our past tying smartly to the modern future is a key element to our strategic plan.”

The renovation of the East follows the 2020 redesign of the South course by Rees Jones.