Golf Course Architecture - Issue 72, April 2023

43 Nine new holes designed by architect David Krause have been completed at GolfCity Köln Pulheim in western Germany. Jösef Potter Golf began construction work in April 2022 and seeded the new holes in September, for an opening in May 2023. Some renovation work was also undertaken on the original nine. The need for an expansion was “selfevident”, according to the GolfCity Köln CEO Hermann Bögle, given that the original nine was hosting over 45,000 rounds per year. “The course has attracted many new members over the years and the plan to extend has been in the CEO’s vision since 2010,” said Darryl Spelman of Jösef Potter. “David was appointed to draft a plan, which would integrate the existing golf and a completely new nine, focusing on creating two separate challenges.” The new Black nine is a par 35, located on the western portion of the site, and the renovated Red a par 32. “The routing that Krause has created leads to some great sights across every corner of the property,” said Spelman. “Two holes which have been laid out facing the west provide views of the old Brauweiler Abbey, whilst the northern-facing holes provide a view of the famous Cologne Cathedral. “There are also various areas holding old Roman ruins across the site, so extra precautions, extensive planning and communication were key to working around these areas with no disruption.” Three lakes covering just over 20,000 square metres have been constructed, meaning there is a significantly higher presence of water compared to the existing nine. “There is also more aggressive mounding outside of the fairways, which are complemented by detailed bunker shaping to add more fun and attraction,” said Spelman. The existing irrigation system has also been upgraded. Krause adds new nine to Pulheim course Photo: Jösef Potter Golf TEE BOX

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