Work begins on golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus

Construction has begun on a new championship golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus in Aberdeenshire.

The course, located on the Ury Estate near Stonehaven, is scheduled to open in the early summer of 2024.

The overall Ury Estate development is being undertaken by developer FM Group and work has just been completed on the planting scheme, covering 30 hectares with around 60,000 trees planted.

Nicklaus said: “From the first day I walked the estate and we discussed the course design, FM Group director Jonathon Milne made it very clear that the goal was to create something that would blend in naturally with the Scottish countryside.

“My philosophy has always been to work with what the natural environment has provided us with, and whenever possible create something that will enhance it, and in many cases create new and better natural habitats.

“And while our firm has created golf courses in 45 countries, Scotland is very special as the game of golf and to me personally.”

Known as the “Golden Bear”, Nicklaus is an 18-time major championship winner, including the Opens he won on Scottish soil, twice at St Andrews (1970 and 1978) and at Muirfield (1966).

He has also built one of the world’s leading golf design firms, with more than 265 courses on his CV.

Douglas Thomson, Ury Estate project director said: “To be commencing work on the course and having Jack’s personal involvement is a ringing endorsement of what we are trying to achieve here in delivering a spectacular experience for both residents and visitors alike.

“The development has a great deal to offer the local community and will attract visitors to both Stonehaven and the surrounding area.

“The golf course is a significant addition to the Ury project and with work progressing on housing, infrastructure and the castle, it is full steam ahead this year.”