Council seeks new operator for Sinfin Golf Course

Published: 7 December 2023

A new operator is being sought for Sinfin Golf Course. The course has been run by Sheffield City Trust, under a lease agreement with Derby City Council, since 2015. 

The trust has indicated it wishes to surrender its lease in 2024 and, as a result, the Council is looking for a new operator. HMH Golf and Leisure, a specialist golf course agent, has been engaged to market the facility and advise the Council on the terms of a new lease to be agreed with the new tenant. 

Sinfin Golf Course is an established business which features an 18-hole parkland golf course, a 6-hole footgolf course/academy course, practice area, practice putting green, pavilion clubhouse and greenkeeping complex, plus car parking. The site also includes Cotton Farmhouse, situated close to the clubhouse. Offers including or excluding the farmhouse will be considered.

HMH Golf and Leisure will market Sinfin Golf Course, but the final decision on a new operator will be taken by the Council’s Cabinet.

It is anticipated that the new operator will sign up for a minimum 25-year lease. Bids will be evaluated on how well interested operators are able to show their ability to meet the Council’s objectives to:

• Deliver a sustainable annual rent for the property
• Secure capital investment in the existing and new facilities
• Give flexibility over the future use of the property (providing such use can run alongside golf) 
• Encourage increased participation in golf 
• Work with Derby Golf Club with the joint aim of promoting golf for the enjoyment and benefit of all
• Encourage additional community outreach programmes
• Ensure the maintenance of the non-golfing areas of the property to protect and conserve the natural environment and ecological character of the land.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, who also represents Sinfin and Osmaston as a ward councilllor, said:

We’ve long known that Sinfin Golf Course is a wonderful facility. With the co-operation of Derby Golf Club, we are seeking an experienced operator to look after the course and clubhouse, and ensure it is preserved for the benefit of people in Derby.

The course’s popularity is evident, with over 32,000 rounds of golf played annually. This firm foundation means the right operator could establish a successful revenue stream, safeguarding the facility's long-term attractiveness and financial sustainability.

The chosen operator will need to ensure the facility remains inclusive for all sections of the community, work in close partnership with Derby Golf Club and keep the courses and clubhouse to a high standard.

Mick O’Hanlon, chairman of Derby Golf Club said:

We’re looking forward to meeting the new operator of Sinfin Golf Couse. It will be a great opportunity to build on the existing success of the facility and develop opportunities to improve our members’ experience. 

Potential operators interested in submitting proposals for Sinfin Golf Course should visit the HMH Golf and Leisure website or contact Ben Allen on 07887 804430. Proposals should be submitted by Thursday 7 March 2024.

Business, Leisure