Swifts Driving Range Reopens

(Date Issued: 11th June 2009)

The Driving Range at Swifts Golf Course in Carlisle will reopen to the public on Friday 12 June, marking the completion of the next stage of Environment Agency (EA) flood defence works.

The Range facility, managed by Carlisle Leisure Limited on behalf of Carlisle City Council, was temporarily closed in June last year to enable the City flood alleviation works programme to be carried out. Alternative golf provision was put in place at the main golf course at Stony Holme during the EA construction period.

Twelve decked bays and five grass hitting bays have now been reinstated at the course, funded by money received from the Environment Agency, and the previous programme of coaching and activities will be available once again.

Craig Lytollis, Outdoor Recreation Manager for Carlisle Leisure Limited said:

“We’re very pleased to have the range back up and running and look forward to welcoming back our regular users and attracting new ones. The coaching programme with our PGA Professional Stephen Ling will begin over the coming weeks and we also have plans to develop a new Junior Club at the course.”

Cllr Ray Bloxham, Portfolio holder for Environment and Infrastructure, added:

“We worked closely with the Environment Agency to ensure that the flood defence work moved forward as quickly and effectively as possible.Although a short time disruption was inevitable, alternative arrangements were put in place. We are pleased to see this stage of the works is now completed and that The Swifts driving bays will be up and running again soon.”

The reinstatement of the driving bays is the first stage of redevelopment works at the facility. Future plans include instating a covered area and short game practice area.

An open day will be held on Saturday, 20 June to mark the reopening of the facility, with a number of activities for all ages and abilities. Starting at 10am, a 36 shot challenge will run throughout the day for Adults, Ladies and Juniors. There will be prizes for those who can get furthest round the course in 36 shots. Markers for the competition cost just £2 with all proceeds going to Eden Valley Hospice.

There will also be longest drive and target golf competitions. Tokens for the range will cost just £1 between 10am and 3pm. Free coaching sessions will also be held, please call The Swifts to book your place in advance. Special promotions will run throughout June, including the chance to win prizes if you find a gold, silver, or bronze ball in your basket.

For further information please call Swifts Golf Course & Driving Range on 01228 625530.

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