Government responds to petition to reopen golf courses

The Government is standing firm over its decisions to keep English golf courses closed as part of heightened COVID-19 restrictions.

Those of us who signed the petition to 'allow golf to be played with appropriate safety measures', and checked the box for updates, have just received a response from the Government via email.

Sadly, for those of you who are desperate to get back on the course, it isn't good news we're afraid.

The statement basically explains why the Government made the decision to close golf courses, lists what kinds of exercise we are currently allowed to do, and most importantly, gives no suggestion that golf courses will be able to reopen any time soon.

But many will be pleased to know that the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has at least acknowledged the mental and physical health benefits of golf.

"Sport is crucial for our mental and physical health. That’s why we have continued to make sure that people can exercise. Given the seriousness of the current situation golf courses have had to close," said the statement from the DCMS.

"The importance of sport and physical activity, including golf, for the nation’s physical and mental health has never been more apparent. They are a powerful defence against the covid-19 pandemic, and we will need to raise levels of fitness among the population as we prepare to return to our normal lives, now the vaccination programme has begun.

""No government would want to be in a position of needing to close sports facilities including golf courses. Golf has great reach across society as people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can take part in the game; it brings people together to experience the outdoors and enjoy nature. Golf courses were one of the first sports facilities to be reopened following the initial lockdown and they were also able to stay open in the local tiered restrictions, including tier 4. However, the current spread of the virus risks the healthcare system becoming overwhelmed. This is something we cannot allow to happen and is why the current national lockdown was introduced."

They went on to suggest that golf would remain closed until the rate of infections had dropped significantly.

"The current restrictions are designed to get the R rate under control through limiting social contact and reducing transmissions. All decisions made by the Government relating to the pandemic and sport have been based on advice and guidance from health and scientific experts," it continued.

Over 130,000 people have signed the petition so far.

12 days ago it reached 100,000 signatures meaning that Parliament became obliged to consider it for debate. We are currently still waiting for a debate date to be revealed.

You can sign the petition and read the full statement from the DCMS HERE.