As a further trial, in advance of a permanent shift, for the months of July and August 2013 the Gents tee at 16th hole will be relocated backwards and onto the front of the current medal tee.

This is being trialled during these months to allow members the opportunity of sampling what is expected to become a permanent arrangement for the start of next season.

There are safety implications involved together with other practicalities on the course at this particular area.

We have had numerous reports of injuries and “near misses” with shots from 15th tee striking the side of the 15th hole and ricocheting onto the 16th tee while players have been teeing up.

In light of recent Court judgements from the Niddry Castle GC incident, we take the view that we should avoid such possibilities wherever practicable and this trial period will show us the actual facts of the matter.

The following is an extract from HEALTH & SAFETY, relating specifically to Golf Courses.  It may appear to be blindingly obvious, (no pun intended re. Niddry) but it is worth reminding ourselves of our responsibilities on the golf course, at the 15th / 16th area in this instance but at numerous other areas, 16/13 for example 8/9/10 and on 18th tee.

The current yellow tee mound will be relocated at the medal tee to widen and elongate it and possibly heighten it, allowing players on this new tee to look back to the 15th to see players teeing off.

From this distance, impacts and near-misses are much less likely to occur.

Please study the photograph below to see exactly the area we are proposing to work on.

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