The St Andrews Links Trust has wasted no time in responding to a barrage of criticism by confirming that the recently-installed Swilcan Bridge stonework will be removed.
In a short statement issued last night, the Trust confirmed the patio-style addition to the 18th hole at St Andrews will be replaced with turf. Earlier in the day Fife Council had also intimated that the installation possibly breached planning regulations.
Straight after pictures of the stonework appeared over the weekend, an unrelenting stream of criticism came from all corners of industry, led by the likes of Sir Nick Faldo.
Part of the statement from St Andrews Links Trust read: “The stonework at the approach and exit of the bridge was identified as one possible long term solution, however while this installation would have provided some protection, in this instance we believe we are unable to create a look which is in keeping with its iconic setting and have taken the decision to remove it.”
The Swilcan Bridge is arguably the most iconic golfing landmark in the world and is believed to be more than 700 years old.
Although parts of it have had to be replaced, due to wear and tear, previous changes had stayed true to the original structure.
But the new addition, created to solve the issue of the turf becoming bare at both sides of the bridge’s entrance in the autumn and winter especially, was the most radical change yet seen.