The UK Government has announced the closure of all golf courses and driving ranges in England with immediate effect as part of its third national lockdown measures.
This means everyone must work from home where possible, except for critical workers, and it will supersede all local restrictions currently in place.
Golf clubs, golf facilities – both indoor and outdoor – and driving ranges will be required to close during this full lockdown, which is likely to last until the middle of February.
Coaching and custom fitting will not be permitted during this time, although pro shops and other golf retailers will be able to operate a click-and-collect service where goods are pre-ordered and either collected off the premises or delivered.
England Golf – as part of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf along with other leading industry bodies – has expressed its disappointment at the closures, having made a strong case in recent months to keep golf open during the national lockdowns and in the regional tier system, and says it will continue to make the case for golf to reopen whenever possible.
Golf courses in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Wales are also closed, although courses in Scotland will remain open for two-ball play for up to two households only. It is currently illegal for those living outside Scotland to cross its borders unless for essential work.