New wildlife haven at Belleisle Golf Course

Wildlife at Belleisle Park will be given a boost thanks to a new scheme at the golf course.

South Ayrshire Council has been awarded funding to create habitats on the course from the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund.

This means that the golf course will become a haven for wildlife, with some areas beyond the fairway transformed by carpets of wildflowers, there will also be shallow lakes and ponds with interconnecting streams. New trees will also be planted, including species which are more suitable to our changing climate.

The new wildlife areas near the 2^nd, 3^rd 10^th and 13^th holes, have been designed by international golf course architects Kimber & Glen, so they will complement the course and enhance playability.

Councillor Martin Kilbride, Buildings, Housing and Environment Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said:" This initiative will enhance the natural environment by creating areas of wetland and wildflower meadows on the edges of the course. These important habitats have declined significantly in the past century, so we're improving biodiversity and encouraging wildlife to move freely through the surrounding landscape."

Councillor Brian Connolly, Sport and Leisure Portfolio Holder said: "The wildlife areas have been strategically placed by Kimber & Glen to enhance the course, and just as importantly, Belleisle Park. For example, the ponds will retain run-off from the golf course after heavy rain, offering a sustainable solution to flooding and drainage issues. If any golfers do end up in the rough, they will find it a colourful place to be, but hopefully not for too long!"

Preliminary works on the course are set to begin soon, with completion towards the end of March 2023.