In response to feedback received from a public engagement exercise conducted in November 2025, the council’s Sport, Leisure & Golf service worked in partnership with Alliance Leisure to propose design proposals for Belleisle Golf Course.

Belleisle Golf Course was originally designed by James Braid in 1927 and is a significant part of golfing history. As part of the council’s 10-year Golf Strategy, plans are required to introduce new course infrastructure, which respects and enhances Braids original concept, while also incorporating sustainable, future-focussed improvements that ensures the course is accessible and affordable to all.

Councillors agreed the proposed plan to modify the course design and introduce GolfPod facilities, enhancing the user experience off-course by improving connectivity between the Clubhouse and the Stables building.

This option will provide one facility with a central reception area and re-designed internal space, including an 8-bay golf range and golf simulators, provided by GolfPod. On-course, key upgrade works will be carried out to re-align the existing holes, which will also improve health and safety for course users, and to install a modern irrigation system.

Councillor Chris Cullen, South Ayrshire Council’s policy lead for leisure and community services, said: “The public feedback gathered through the engagement process has played an important role in shaping proposals that reflect the views of our communities while continuing to enhance the golfing experience across South Ayrshire.

“This is an exciting time for golf in South Ayrshire as we invest in modern, inclusive and sustainable facilities that will help attract new players, families, visitors and future events to the area. The approved proposal supports our ambitions to strengthen tourism, promote health and wellbeing, and build on South Ayrshire’s reputation as one of Scotland’s premier golfing destinations.

“The strong public support for the preferred option gives us real confidence as we continue delivering our ambitious 10-year Golf Strategy.”