Gary Player Design is approaching completion of a renovation of the Lodhi course at Delhi Golf Club in New Delhi, India.

Delhi Golf Club, one of India’s oldest clubs, is nearing completion of their renovation lead by Gary Player Design. The firm was appointed in January with construction starting in March.

“The redesign at Delhi Golf Club was initially focused on the green complexes,” said Jeff Lawrence, vice president and senior designer of Gary Player Design. “We have implemented new greens designs that will enhance the natural setting while also improving visual aesthetics and strategy.”

The design firm hopes that construction will be largely complete by mid-August to allow the course to reopen in late 2019.

“The green sizes were increased to add more pinnable areas and strategy to the putting surfaces,” said Lawrence. “Our scope of work grew as we progressed into the project. We redesigned all the fairway bunkers, installed a new irrigation system and provided added contouring to some of the fairways. Additional drainage, new cart path routing and tree trimming was also included in the redesign project.

“We hope the members will embrace the improved strategy and visual appeal of each green setting. We have provided a wide variety of different looks to each green complex, which adds to the character of the golf course. The conditioning will also be vastly improved as updated construction methods have been implemented along with a new irrigation system. It may take some time for the membership to get used to the new look and playability, but I am sure they will grow to enjoy and appreciate the work that has been done.”

The golf course architecture firm is eager to add another course in India to its global portfolio. The Gary Player-designed DLF Golf and Country Club, which hosts The Hero India Open, already shows that the firm has a clear understanding on how to make the project like Delhi Golf Club a success.

“There are many challenges working in India,” continued Lawrence. “The simplest of things such as equipment and materials are just not as easily accessible as they are in many other parts of the world. You must be patient, resourceful and accommodating to the different methodologies without sacrificing the quality of the product. The club and entire team have been incredible, and the finished product really is of the highest quality.

“We have such respect for Delhi Golf Club and the rich history it has. We are honoured to be involved in this special project and we look forward to showcasing it later this year when it reopens to the membership.”