A Guide to Sharing the Golf Course on Banstead Downs
DESIGNED TO ASSIST IN AVOIDING INJURY, ALARM & CONFLICT
WHILST ON THE GOLF COURSE AT BANSTEAD DOWNS.
As we all know, golf balls are hard and fly far and at great speed. Being on a golf course therefore carries risk, but that risk can be effectively managed. Safety is a priority on the golf course at Banstead Downs.
- Banstead Downs Golf Course (BDGC) is within Banstead Downs Common, which is overseen by Banstead Commons Conservators (BCC) under statute and their byelaws.
- Banstead Downs Golf Club has the exclusive right to operate and maintain the golf course and works to make it an attractive place for golfers and public to enjoy.
- The public has an absolute right to use the common land, including the golf course, for recreation and exercise including the walking of pets. At all times the Public has an obligation to obey English law and the BCC byelaws.
- Golfers and other recreational users of Banstead Downs should endeavour to coexist safely and amicably.
Golfers are aware that a shot must not be played if the ball could reach a person or pet whose presence they are aware of and they must always check that it is safe to play a shot and shout ‘Fore’ when a wayward shot has gone out of sight or may land close to someone.
Safety Tips for Recreational Users of Banstead Downs
- Play goes from the tee to the putting green on all holes and that can be in any direction. Be aware of the direction of play so that you know where balls could come from.
- Check back towards the tee for golfers before you proceed. If you cannot see the tee or golfers, they might still be there, and they will not be able to see you.
- When you see golfers, check that they have seen you before proceeding.
- Golfers aim for the short-mown areas known as fairways and greens but are not always accurate. Do not assume that being to the side of the course or within the tree line means that you are safe.
- A shout of ‘Fore’ from a golfer is made when a wayward shot has gone out of sight.
Priority and Courtesy
- Neither the public nor golfers are granted priority by the BCC byelaws.
- Users should respect each other and not interfere with each other’s use of Banstead Downs.
- Please show common courtesy to each other.
- On occasions it will be safer and cause less delay if golfers give way.
- There will also be times when other users should wait for golfers to play their shots.
- When the situation is unclear, golfers are best placed to ensure safety and minimise the delay for both groups and should either invite other users to proceed or ask them to wait a few moments.
