Golf will reopen in March in England, reports suggest

Golf clubs across England may not have to wait for too many more weeks before they can reopen.

The Times newspaper has just reported that golf's reopening could come "within weeks of a planned return of schools from March 8."

This is expected to be confirmed when the Prime Minister reveals his 'road map out of lockdown' on February 22.

Golf is back?

The article suggests that outdoor sports such as golf and tennis are likely to be some of the first activities to resume.

"Outdoor activity is likely to be permitted first in each phase," it reads.

"Team and individual sports such as golf and tennis, along with limited social gatherings outside, would therefore be possible within weeks of a planned return of schools from March 8."

If true, this means that golf courses may have reopened in time for the new season, normally starting in March or April.

When golf returns it is likely that the sport will revert back to the original COVID-19 safety measures, with play restricted to two-balls or groups made up of the same household.

All previous social-distancing measures are certain to remain in place too, including leaving the flag in and not raking bunkers.

As for clubhouses, other reports suggest there will be ‘a great unlocking in May’, suggesting that indoor facilities at golf clubs will be able to reopen then.

Golf's lockdown debate

Since the country went into lockdown at the start of January, over 130,000 people have signed a petition to 'allow golf to be played with appropriate safety measures'.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf has also collected evidence from leading scientists that argues that COVID-19 transmission levels whilst playing golf are likely to be extremely low.

The report, presented to the Prime Minister and Chief Medical Officers in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, read: "Golf’s careful planning, and compliance with COVID-19 tiers and regulation means its level of transmission from playing is likely to be extremely low, much lower than indoor space, or more populated outdoor areas.

"This is supported by the various scientific research the paper cites and I encourage those in SAGE and in government to review those as I am sure they will conclude that golf is similar to walking, running and cycling in being beneficial, and is safe to play with the relevant protocols in place.”

However others, including our own Editor, have argued that golf should remain closed until the pandemic is brought under control.

Watch this space for more updates on the date of golf's reopening.