British architect Simon Gidman has just completed a project to build a new eighteenth green, first tee and academy facilities at the Hösel Golf Club near Dusseldorf, Germany.

Although the golf course is only 15 years old, initial planning objections restricting clearance of trees in a nearby orchard forced the home green and driving range some distance from the clubhouse. 

Local authorities recently accepted the revised location, and, as well as a replacement green, Germany contractor Josef Pötter constructed a new tee, fairway bunkers, and academy facilities. The alterations opened during the summer.

Course manager Chris Raper said: “The local authorities allowed some minor clearance of poorly managed trees and in their place we have doubled the size of the original orchard and planted up rare varieties of fruit trees, so both the club and the authorities are delighted. The new academy will be one of the best facilities in the area, part matting and part turf, which will make it playable all year round.”