Abbey Hill Golf Centre

Notable observations

• Habitat and Biodiversity Conservation: Ecological surveys revealed a variety of habitats, including neutral grassland, woodland, scrub, and wetland features such as ponds and a stream. This knowledge is actively incorporated into the management plan to support biodiversity, including the installation of bat boxes and bird boxes​ .
• Wetland Management: Significant focus is placed on managing ponds and the stream flowing through the course to maintain habitat connectivity and ecological health. Collaboration with local river authorities ensures water courses remain clear of debris​ .
• Water Conservation: Irrigation practices are highly targeted, focusing only on greens, surrounds, and tees using moisture meters and weather data to optimize water use. A Water Resilience Plan is under development to explore additional water sourcing options such as runoff collection​ .
• Energy Efficiency: LED lighting has been installed in key areas, and heating in the clubhouse is zone-controlled for efficiency. Transitioning from gas to electricity in the kitchen is underway, and there is a plan to achieve energy Net Zero by 2027​.
• Charity and Outreach: The facility raises approximately £10,000 annually for local and national charities through member contributions and charity events. This effort underscores the center's commitment to community support​ .
• Health and Inclusivity: The 9-hole and pirate-themed crazy golf courses are particularly successful in attracting families and new golfers, promoting physical and mental health. The center also supports inclusivity with an Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion policy for members and staff​ .

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The commitment of Abbey Hill Golf Centre to keep environmental sustainability at the heart of what they do is impressive across all aspects of the facility’s operations. The golf course is managed in ways that keep inputs of water and chemicals as low as possible, whilst also safeguarding ecological features through water course management and installing bat boxes. Good housekeeping is clearly apparent in the well organised maintenance facility, where excellent records are kept of materials used. Particularly impressive is the work to develop a Water Resilience Plan for the centre, and the work towards energy Net Zero by 2027. The management team demonstrate good understanding of the importance of sustainability, and are clearly committed to ensuring that the facility operates within these principles.

Keith Duff (GEO accredited independent verifier)