Thomson Perrett & Lobb (TPL) has been appointed to consult on and oversee design work on two historic courses close to London, The Berkshire Golf Club and The Richmond Golf Club, Surrey.

The Berkshire has appointed TPL to analyse the playing strategy on both courses and return its 69 bunkers to a more traditional look, while using modern construction techniques and specifications to ensure longevity.

”We are looking at incorporating the heathland elements, including heather, native grasses and rougher edges into the bunker complexes, to give them an authentic look but with a slightly more modern feel,” said Tim Lobb. “They will be constructed to the highest technical specification to ensure good playability, maintenance and longevity.

“The goal is to refurbish all of our bunkers improving the way they play, their drainage and their shape, returning them to the heather-topped look that the original designer, Herbert Fowler, created,” said John Hunt, secretary of The Berkshire Golf Club.

At The Richmond Golf Club, Surrey, TPL will oversee a complete review of the Tom Dunn designed course, which opened in 1891, with special attention to bunkering, including the renovation and reshaping of existing bunkers and the addition of new, strategic hazards.

Work will be completed in two stages, from September 2010 and then again from September 2011, over the winter months.