Member Engagement Evening 23rd October 2026

TRENT HAM PARK GOLF CLUB

Members’ Engagement Evening – October 2026

Reflecting on 2026 | Looking Ahead to 2027

Thank you to everyone who attended our Members’ Engagement Evening on Friday.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, it was encouraging to see members taking the time to attend and contribute to what proved to be a positive and constructive evening.

For those unable to attend, we are pleased to share a summary of the key points discussed, together with the presentation slides from the evening.

Reflecting on a Successful 2026

Jon Farmer opened the evening by thanking members for their attendance and outlining the objectives of the meeting: to reflect on the commitments made for 2026, review the progress achieved and share the Club’s priorities and ambitions for 2027.

2026 has been a season of which we can all be extremely proud.

At our previous Members’ Engagement Evening, we made a number of commitments to improve the Club and the overall membership experience. We are delighted to report that more than 90% of those commitments have been delivered.

This is a significant achievement and demonstrates the Club’s determination to listen to members, act upon their feedback and deliver meaningful improvements.

The golf course, in particular, has received outstanding recognition throughout the season from visitors, corporate members, the Staffordshire Golf Union and those involved in Midlands competitions.

The improvements witnessed across the course have not happened by chance. They are the result of long-term investment, careful planning and, most importantly, the dedication and hard work of our greenkeeping team.

Course Manager’s Presentation – Jim Fox

Course Manager Jim Fox delivered a detailed and informative presentation, reflecting on the work undertaken throughout the season and outlining the priorities for the coming winter.

Jim rightly praised his team for their tremendous commitment, teamwork and determination to consistently present the course to the highest possible standards.

The results speak for themselves, with Trentham Park now widely recognised as one of the finest-conditioned courses in Staffordshire.

Key Course Improvements and Winter Projects

3rd Tee Development

The 3rd tee will undergo a complete renovation during the winter. In addition, selected trees in the surrounding area have been removed to improve airflow and growing conditions, helping to ensure the long-term quality of the teeing surface.

Bunker Renovation Programme

A major programme of bunker improvements is planned, including the removal of existing sand and replacement with new material.

This is a significant undertaking, requiring considerable manual labour alongside the work of our greenkeeping team.

To help deliver these improvements ahead of the 2027 season, the Club will be seeking support from members willing to volunteer their time.

Further details will be communicated in due course, and we would greatly appreciate any assistance members can offer.

Divot Repairs and Course Care

Members raised questions regarding the availability of divot repair boxes on tees and bags containing soil and seed for use around the course.

Jim explained that both initiatives had previously been trialled but unfortunately received very limited use.

An interesting suggestion was made regarding the possibility of fitting golf buggies with divot repair equipment. This is something the Club will investigate further.

Machinery Investment and Refurbishment

Jim also highlighted the substantial increases in the cost of replacing course machinery, with some equipment prices having almost doubled in recent years.

To manage these rising costs responsibly, the Club will adopt a more structured approach to machinery replacement and refurbishment.

Where practical, existing machinery will be refurbished to extend its working life, allowing us to maintain the high standards of course presentation while ensuring that Club funds are invested wisely.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Whilst the golf course remains central to everything we do, our ambitions extend beyond course improvements.

The Club is committed to continuing its investment in facilities, people and services to further enhance the membership experience.

Strengthening the Professional Team

Plans are progressing to strengthen our Professional Shop team, including the recruitment of an additional PGA Professional.

This will provide greater support for coaching programmes, member development and, importantly, the continued growth of our junior section.

Developing the next generation of golfers remains an important priority for the Club.

Launch of Our New Website

The introduction of the Club’s new website represents an important step forward in how we communicate with members and promote Trentham Park to a wider audience.

The website will provide:

• Improved communication and access to Club information.
• A more effective online visitor booking experience.
• Greater opportunities to promote the golf course, clubhouse and facilities.
• A stronger online presence to attract new visitors, societies and prospective members.

This investment will play an important role in supporting the Club’s continued development and commercial success.

The New Sports Bar

The development of the new Sports Bar is another exciting improvement to our clubhouse facilities.

The aim is to create a welcoming, comfortable and relaxed environment where members and their guests can enjoy food, drinks and the social side of Club life.

A special mention must go to Karl Snape and Mark Bennett, who have been instrumental in bringing this project to life.

From raising the necessary funds and developing the design to personally contributing many hours of their own time, their enthusiasm and commitment have been exceptional.

On behalf of the Club, we extend our sincere thanks to both Karl and Mark for their efforts.

Member Questions and Discussion

An important part of the evening was the opportunity for members to raise questions, offer suggestions and discuss the Club’s future direction.

A number of topics were covered, one member was concerned with the hot summer we have just had and rough being a fire risk and stressed the importance no smoking on the course.

Visitor Green Fees

The Club outlined plans to increase the headline visitor green fee to £90 during peak periods, alongside the introduction of a revised online pricing structure.

The objective is to ensure our pricing better reflects the quality of the course, demand and available playing times, whilst protecting the value of membership.

Potential Introduction of a Joining Fee

Members asked whether the Club would consider introducing a joining fee.

Jon explained that membership numbers have continued to grow year on year. Should this positive trend continue, the introduction of a joining fee is something the Club would consider in the future.

Golf Course Rankings and Online Visibility

A question was raised regarding whether there is an official ranking system for golf courses in Staffordshire.

Whilst there is no single recognised ranking covering all courses in the county, the Club’s new website and digital marketing strategy will aim to significantly improve Trentham Park’s visibility in online searches.

Our ambition is to ensure Trentham Park is one of the first clubs golfers discover when searching for quality golf in Staffordshire.

Halfway House Facilities

Members asked whether an electricity supply could be installed at the halfway house.

Unfortunately, the cost of providing a permanent power supply is currently prohibitive.

However, alternative options are being explored to make better use of the facility and improve the service available to members.

Drinking Water on the Course

The availability of drinking water during particularly hot weather was also discussed.

Whilst the Club has previously considered water provision, there are health, safety and maintenance considerations that need to be addressed.

This is an area we will review further as part of our planning for 2027.

Recognising the People Behind Our Success

In closing the evening, Jon took the opportunity to recognise and thank the many individuals and departments whose efforts contribute to the successful running of Trentham Park Golf Club.

Special thanks were extended to:

• Jim Fox and the greenkeeping team for their outstanding commitment and the exceptional presentation of the golf course throughout the season.
• Julie and the catering team for consistently delivering excellent food and service to members and guests.
• Mark and the bar team for maintaining high standards of hospitality and creating a welcoming clubhouse environment.
• The Professional Shop team for their contribution to the day-to-day golf operation and the smooth running of Club competitions.
• Kerry and the office team, including Kathryn and John O, for their continued support, flexibility and dedication behind the scenes.
• The Club Committee for their ongoing commitment, guidance and the considerable amount of voluntary time they give to supporting the Club.

The evening also provided an opportunity for members to express their appreciation for Jon Farmer’s continued hard work, leadership and commitment to the development and success of Trentham Park Golf Club.

Finally – Thank You to Our Members

The success of Trentham Park Golf Club is built on much more than the quality of our golf course. It is the result of the collective efforts of our staff, Committee, volunteers and, of course, our members.

2026 has demonstrated what can be achieved when we listen, plan carefully and work together towards shared objectives.

We recognise that there is always more to do, and we remain committed to building on the progress already made.

Our focus for 2027 is clear: to continue improving the golf course, strengthen our facilities and services, manage the Club responsibly and ensure Trentham Park remains a golf club that members are proud to belong to.

Thank you once again to everyone who attended, contributed to the discussions and continues to support the Club.

We look forward to another successful year in 2027.

Trentham Park Golf Club