Greetham Valley

Notable Observations

• Biodiversity Net Gain Mapping A Biodiversity Net Gain assessment has been completed by an external specialist, which will produce detailed habitat maps across the property. This provides a robust evidence base for managing woodland, grassland, wildflower meadows and open water habitats.
• Water Vole Recovery Programme The club is working with the Waterlife Recovery Trust to support water vole recovery through active mink trapping, with otters already observed on site. This reflects targeted intervention for priority species rather than passive habitat provision.
• Reduced Turf Through Naturalisation Underutilised playing areas have been deliberately transitioned into grassland roughs, expanding carry areas and reducing managed turf without compromising play. This lowers inputs while increasing habitat value.
• Fully Non-Potable Irrigation System All irrigation water comes from three linked spring-fed lakes, supplemented by runoff from roofs and hard surfaces. This system avoids any use of potable water or groundwater abstraction across a 45-hole facility.
• Highly Restricted Irrigation Volumes Annual irrigation use is under 10,000 m³, achieved by limiting watering to greens and tees and using evapotranspiration data alongside moisture meters to target only stressed areas.
• Biomass Boilers for Heat and Hot Water Two on-site biomass boilers generate all heat and hot water for both the clubhouse and hotel, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels for building energy demand.
• Solar-Powered Electric Buggy Fleet Solar panels installed on the driving range roof generate electricity used directly to charge the fleet of electric buggies, linking renewable generation to daily operational use.
• Multi-Use, Open Access Facility The site supports a wide mix of uses including golf, walking, bowls, conferences, charity fundraising, and a public footpath crossing the course. Strong partnerships exist with local schools, charities, and community groups.

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“The large golf complex at Greetham Valley (45 holes in total) is well-managed in a very sustainable way, using grass species appropriate to the site and managing these with good agronomic practice. Of particular note is the almost entirely natural source of irrigation water, using a series of linked lakes fed by a spring-fed stream, with additional input from runoff water from roofs and hard surfaces. Their biodiversity enhancement work is also well-regarded, as evidenced by their being awarded the Environmental Golf Club of the Year award in 2017. A strong commitment to use of renewable energy is demonstrated by their use of onsite biomass boilers to provide hot water and heat to the clubhouse and hotel, and an array of solar panels generating energy to charge the fleet of electric buggies. A clear commitment to sustainability is apparent here.”

Keith Duff (GEO accredited independent verifier)