Golf on the rise at city courses in London [Video]

Golf is once again paying for golf as London’s municipal golf course system is on more secure financial footing.

The news comes after council made the bold decision to permanently close River Road Golf Course several years ago.

Highlights from the 2023 season

• 1,804 members
• 120,295 rounds played
• $411,846 contribution to Golf Reserve Fund
• $3,333,184 Golf Reserve Fund balance

“Last year with about 120,000 rounds, between Thames Valley and Fanshawe, it was the most in recent years,” said Mike Vandertuin, manager of sport services. “It was extremely successful.”

Deputy Mayor Shawn Lewis praised the rebound, “We have a golf system that’s healthy, that’s thriving, that’s seeing, a bit of a boom period right now,” he said.

In 2021, a report by city staff warned that the financial outlook for municipal golf was bleak.

Council agreed with a recommendation to permanently close River Road Golf Course and focus on the remaining four courses.

The closure was contentious with many long-time members …