Newsletter 19th December

Dear Members,

As the year draws to a close, I would like to reflect on the events of 2022 and look forward to 2023.
This past year has been dominated by the definitive granting of planning and environmental permit for the golf course, an essential step in the durability of the Brussel Drohme Golf Club existence. Up until now, our course had not been the permit, which meant that we were unable to plan for the long term. Once we obtained the permit, we immediately started the construction of 3 new greens, which will be playable by June.

The year 2022 was also the year in which the golf course buildings were finally connected to gas with a new heating system. A process that has enabled the new changing rooms to be completed as well. We hope you are happy with the result. All in all, we have invested more than €500,000 this year to improve the golf course and its facilities.

Alongside all the positive developments there are also some less positive points. One example is the parking: we hope that the government will approve the change to the PRAS in early 2023; an approval that would allow the further development of Drohme Park but also provide parking for the many visitors to the forest. In addition to these changes, we hope to obtain permission in 2023 to build the small car park at the entrance to the tunnel.

The number of golf lockers on offer has been increased and 150 bike racks have been installed on site, making it easier to access the site by leaving your car at home. However, if you come by car, don’t forget to use the members’ car park at the Avenue de Coccinelles entrance. As you will have noticed, some of the ongoing procedures are unfortunately not under our direct control, but we are trying, as you would expect us to, to find solutions. In conclusion, we hope that, despite these ongoing concerns, you have been satisfied with the rest of your past year.
2023 promises to be a big year with many changes, some positive and some not so positive. However, we hope that over time, the latter will see the positive impact on the Club’s journey and activities. Here is an overview of the 2023 agenda;

  • Firstly, netting will be installed between parts of the golf course and the racecourse by the end of January. This is to ensure the safety of the users of the racecourse.
  • Then the work on the golf course will start, including the renovation of all bunkers, the enlargement of the water hazards and the planting of no less than 60 trees. All these works will be ready before the start of the golf season.
  • As far as the golf restaurant is concerned, we are aware that the offer needs to be improved and we are actively working on this. We hope to be able to provide more concrete information early in the new year.
  • The academy is also on the move: following our survey, it became apparent that there is a strong demand for group lessons for adults. It is generally proven that group lessons make golfers more active in re-learning and, in addition, they also have a great social function. More details on this new and unique formula will be communicated from February.

In addition to this, the various committees (Ladies, Men’s, Seniors, Juniors, Fête et Brevet…) are once again working hard to put together a rich programme of competitions and activities. I would like to take this opportunity to thank once again all the volunteers. You are the guarantors of this unique atmosphere at the BDGC, where everyone is welcome.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy start to the New Year, in good health and in good company! I hope to be able to convey this wish to you again in person in the New Year.
Yours sincerely

Pim Bust
Director Brussels Drohme Golf Club