Water Resilience for Golf Courses

A golf club in southwest England faced persistent issues with its mains water supply. Situated at the highest point within the local distribution network, the site experienced regular low-pressure events and, at times, complete loss of supply. This affected both irrigation operations and the day-to-day functioning of the clubhouse.

The Challenge

A golf club in southwest England faced persistent issues with its mains water supply.  Situated at the highest point within the local distribution network, the site experienced regular low-pressure events and, at times, complete loss of supply.  This affected both irrigation operations and the day-to-day functioning of the clubhouse.

The club required a reliable, long-term solution capable of supporting both course maintenance and hospitality operations.

The Solution

Drift undertook a hydrogeological assessment to determine the viability of developing a private groundwater supply.

The investigation identified a suitable groundwater resource at circa 114m with the final drilling depth achieved being 135m.

Following successful drilling and test pumping operations, Drift installed a permanent variable speed pumping system designed to maintain a constant pressure across the entire site, automatically responding to changing demand patterns.

Water supplied to the clubhouse was further protected through ultraviolet treatment to provide additional assurance regarding water quality.

The Outcome

The completed scheme transformed the reliability of the site's water supply, enabling the club to maintain course quality whilst ensuring uninterrupted service within the clubhouse.

The project demonstrates how private water supplies can provide resilience for organisations operating in locations where the mains network cannot consistently meet demand.

Technical Highlights

• Hydrogeological assessment completed
• Groundwater resource identified from 114m below ground level
• Borehole drilled, tested and commissioned by Drift
• Variable speed pressure-controlled pumping system installed
• UV treatment incorporated for clubhouse supply

Project Impact

• Supports irrigation of the entire golf course including putting greens
• Maintains consistent pressure throughout the site
• Reduced reliance on an unreliable mains supply
• Enhances playing conditions during peak irrigation periods

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