The prospective US golfers willing to pay £52,000 to join the Greg Norman-designed £12.5 million golf links resort at Doonbeg, Co Clare will be rubbing shoulders with a select group of locals who have been offered a cut-price deal by the promoters of the project.
In recognition of the local community's support, developers
Landmark National Ltd stated that a local membership agreement has been worked out with the Doonbeg residents. Mr Doug Barton of Landmark said the scale of charges for locals will be broadly similar to those operating at Lahinch and Bally bunion golf clubs.
Though membership at both the above courses is currently closed, it is understood that the cost of joining Lahinch is £1,000.
Father Pat Cotter, who spoke strongly in favour of the project at last June's Bord Pleanala hearing into the plan, said the numbers joining locally will be restricted to 200. Some 300 US members are expected.
He said it was the intention of locals to establish their own Doonbeg Golf Club, complete with a constitution and elected president and captains.
Asked how the "Doonbeg community" will be determined, Father Cotter said those details are being worked out at the moment, but it will involve Doonbeg and adjoining parishes.
"Obviously, Landmark will have to make their money back and those paying green fees will take priority and we accept that playing at the course will be subject to availability."
He added that the establishment of a local club would add atmosphere to the golf resort, which will also include leisure facilities and a hotel.
:quality(70)/s3.amazonaws.com/arc-authors/irishtimes/6e8ec300-40e5-4306-a133-026729d6d8b8.png)