The New Basingstoke Golf Course - Scott Roberts (Course Manager) and Bruce Weller (Architect)
Release Date: 04/08/2025
The Greenprint
In this episode, we're joined by golf course designer and builder Ryan Van Der Veen of Van Der Veen Designs. Growing up in Indiana, Ryan entered the world of construction and design early on—launching his career under the legendary Pete Dye. His time with Dye laid the foundation for a hands-on, design-and-build approach that's remained with him throughout his career. Ryan later joined Norman Designs, where he spent years refining his skills in construction, project management, and design across the globe. Eventually, his journey led him to Australia, where he's now based and continuing to...
info_outlineThe Greenprint
In this episode, Leighton delves into the remarkable transformation of Basingstoke Golf Club, telling the story through the evolution of the course itself. What began as an ambitious project years ago saw the club make a bold move half a mile across the M3 to Dummer Golf Club. The transition included selling the original site for development and acquiring Dummer Golf Course, all while ensuring that the members always had a course to play on. Scott and Bruce join Leighton to discuss the early challenges of this endeavor, including navigating planning hurdles, managing water resources, and...
info_outlineThe Greenprint
Welcome to the first episode of The Greenprint! In this inaugural episode, we dive into the incredible story of Raglan Golf Club in Monmouthshire, Wales—a course that has truly risen from the ashes. After closing its doors following the COVID-19 pandemic, Raglan was purchased in early 2024 by a group hailing from Monmouthshire, and its rebirth is nothing short of inspiring. Lucy, the driving force behind the revitalization, shares her journey in transforming the course from a state of disrepair to one that's ready to open in early April. From rebuilding greens to adding new tees and bunkers,...
info_outlineIn this episode, Leighton delves into the remarkable transformation of Basingstoke Golf Club, telling the story through the evolution of the course itself. What began as an ambitious project years ago saw the club make a bold move half a mile across the M3 to Dummer Golf Club. The transition included selling the original site for development and acquiring Dummer Golf Course, all while ensuring that the members always had a course to play on.
Scott and Bruce join Leighton to discuss the early challenges of this endeavor, including navigating planning hurdles, managing water resources, and crafting layouts that allowed for continuous play. They also talk about how they managed to preserve key elements of the old Dummer course while giving it a major facelift, modernizing the chalk downland course with dramatic improvements. The greens, in particular, stand out with their impressive movement and challenging pin placements.
Now entering its first full season, Scott is focused on making sure the course plays hard, fast, and in top condition.
This episode highlights how innovation, drive, and a clear vision can not only reshape a golf course but also secure the future of a beloved, long-standing club.
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