Revamp for Scotland’s last surviving golf factory building next to Old Course

Work at The Old Course Shop in St Andrews can now swing into action after consent for a proposed refurbishment was granted.

The Category-C listed building occupies a prominent position opposite the Royal and Ancient Golf Club clubhouse.

A report from Fife Council planners explained that the building originated as a golf club manufacturing complex associated with historic golf club makers R. Forgan & Son.

“Historic development of the site includes a number of interconnected buildings dating from the mid to late nineteenth century, comprising former workshops, finishing shops, drying sheds and associated premises which were gradually amalgamated into a single commercial unit,” it said.

“The property is recognised as the last surviving golf club factory in Scotland and is listed primarily for its historic associations, townscape value and contribution to the historic golfing heritage of St Andrews.

“The building currently operates as a retail unit and golf-related facility, having undergone previous alterations and conversion works in the early 2000s, including refurbishment of the principal shopfront facing The Links.”

The proposals will see internal and external alterations carried out to facilitate a refurbishment and reconfiguration of the existing retail premises.

Externally, there will be the replacement of the existing entrance and exit doors, installation of automatic door opening equipment and associated accessibility improvements, together with repainting of the existing shopfront.

Existing glazing, shopfront openings and historic architectural detailing are proposed to be retained.

The work will aim to “enhance accessibility, modernise the retail environment and support the continued viable use” of the listed building whilst retaining its historic character and key architectural features.

Approving the application, planners added: “The site is currently in commercial use and the proposal seeks to modernise and improve the existing premises to support its continued operation.

“As such, the proposal is considered to support the ongoing viability and use of an established town centre unit and is acceptable in principle, subject to consideration of its detailed impacts.

“The proposed external alterations are modest in nature and would preserve the character and appearance of both the building and the St Andrews Conservation Area. Furthermore, the works would not result in any adverse impacts on neighbouring amenity.”

Applications seeking listed building consent and permission for signage have also been approved.