First pictures have emerged of the new-look Swilcan Bridge at St Andrews – arguably the most famous golfing landmark in the world.
St Andrews Links Trust has responded to long-standing issues with the grass, either side of the bridge, getting churned up by the thousands who visit The Home of Golf weekly. Also, on Sundays, St Andrews is opened to the public.
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The bridge is believed to be more than 700 years old although parts of it have had to be replaced because of wear and tear. On Sunday afternoon the St Andrews Links issued a statement making it clear “no works have been undertaken to the bridge itself”. See statement above.
However the latest addition, which looks like a circular patio, is a major departure from anything tried before.
On Twitter, long-time North West-based PGA pro Alan Gibson said: “Some things should be left alone. @TheHomeofGolf @RandA @TheOpen. Bring back the grass!!! 700 years old and in 2023 this monstrosity is added. Unbelievable.”
Others had their say, including three-time Open champion Nick Faldo, who responded with the following when asked his thoughts
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He said: “Worst (sic) tham missing the fairway left!”
It is thought the original Swilcan Bridge was built by shepherds so they could move their livestock more easily.
Former Ryder Cup star Ken Brown also added on Twitter: “The Swilken Bridge now serving food. A table for Fore please. Serving BBQ meals. Book early”.
Machrihanish Golf Club member Lee Mathieson, who played The Old Course last November, told GolfNews24: “Absolutely hell no. Tell you what let’s paint a moustache on the Mona Lisa, add Donald Trump to Mount Rushmore and paint the pyramids green… Good ideas ? No no and no. Some things are best left alone and the most iconic bridge in world golf is one of them.”