THE demolition of Royal Dornoch Golf Club’s historic clubhouse is underway.
Following the recent opening of its new £13.9 million clubhouse, club captain Gary Bethune took a symbolic sledgehammer to the former clubhouse to signal the start of a six-week demolition programme. The works are being project managed and overseen by Nairn-based Helica, with contractor G.F. Job carrying out the sensitive demolition.
The former clubhouse had served Royal Dornoch for more than 116 years, welcoming generations of golfers, members, visitors from around the world, major championship winners, celebrities, and royalty.
Officially opened on 3 July 1909 at a cost of £1,607, the clubhouse replaced an earlier wooden golf house with three rooms and a corrugated iron roof. Among those present at the opening was Scots-born American steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, who served as VP of Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
Over time, however, the facilities were no longer fit for purpose. The new clubhouse is said to deliver ‘best-in-class’ facilities and complements wider renovation works across the club.
Ahead of the demolition, members were invited to return to the building one final time to collect memorabilia and mementos.
Club captain Gary Bethune said, “In one way it is sad to see the clubhouse going. It has served us well for most of the last 116 years, but nothing is forever and it was undoubtedly time to move forward. Like many others, I said my fond farewells in early December when I locked the doors one last time. We had raised a glass or two to the old dear and shared fond memories that will be with us forever.”
Ewan MacGregor, MD at Helica, said, “The old clubhouse is an iconic part of Royal Dornoch’s history and holds many special memories for both the local community and golfers from around the world. Helica is proud to be overseeing the sensitive demolition of such a significant building alongside G.F. Job, ensuring the process is carefully planned, well managed and carried out with care.”
Once demolition is complete, the site will be levelled and landscaped ahead of the start of the new season.
