Singapore – The prestigious Singapore Island Country Club (SICC) is set to unveil its significantly renovated Island Course, with a limited reopening of the back nine holes scheduled for the summer of 2025. This extensive project, costing around S$30 million (US$22 million), marks a major upgrade to one of Singapore's premier golf destinations.
The renovation, designed by Nelson & Haworth, was completed by Brett Mogg, honoring the final design work of the late Neil Haworth. The project aimed to enhance the course's playability and resilience, addressing issues caused by the previous clay-based and cowgrass layout, which frequently led to closures during wet weather.
In a time where Golf courses in Singapore are decreasing, SICC aimed to keep it's status as a top tier private club, and to provide it's members with an all weather golfing enviroment.
Key improvements include:
Smoothing fairway slopes and improving pedestrian access.
Installing sand capping and a new drainage system to withstand heavy tropical rainfall.
Preserving existing playing routes and mature trees.
Enhancing views of the Peirce Reservoir.
Implementing traditional push-up style greens and eco-riveted bunkers.
Significant changes were made to several holes, notably:
Hole 11: The transverse slope was eliminated, a U-shaped drain was converted into a natural stream, and the green was relocated with a new back tee.
Hole 12: a long par 3 hole was improved.
Hole 13: The teeing ground was raised to provide a unique golfing experience.
Hole 16: The par-3 hole was lengthened and redesigned with a Redan green template for strategic play.
The course now features Primo Zoysia turfgrass from Sports Turf Solutions (STS) on the tees and greens, a new SubAir ventilation system under the greens, and a new Toro irrigation system throughout the course.
The project involved a collaborative effort from various experts, including Chris Gray (R&A), Ivan Chua (SICC), TEHC International, Aqua Turf International, JYC Consultant, WT Partnership, and Centaur Asia Pacific.
This renovation underscores SICC's commitment to providing its members with a world-class golfing experience, ensuring the Island Course remains a top destination for years to come.
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