The UK Golf Federation is campaigning that the golf industry is heard by Government – whether independently via the UKGF or part of Sport via the DCMS, The R&A and the Golf All Party Parliamentary Group.
The Federation is concerned that in the Government’s announcement on business rate relief on 27th January for pubs and live music venues (who will receive additional support) there was no help for leisure or sport facilities including golf, with many venues under equally severe financial pressure and left exposed to significant increases.
Earlier in the month the UKGF Newsletter had published a paper prepared by rates specialist, Mark Smith, of Smith Leisure, which related to golf venues situated in England, although many of the principles covered apply across the UK.
Below is a snapshot of the increased business rates some of our Members will see coming into effect on the 1st April 2026:
(Image provided by UKGF)
Doug Poole, CEO of The UK Golf Federation, told GBN, “We are all trying to grow golf participation, but someone will have to pay for these increases, and it will ultimately be the golfer. I understand there is very little we can do regarding the increases, except keep pushing government on behalf of the golf industry to the damage the new Biz Rates can have on golf and the benefits of participation.
“I hope sharing my members views and interests could widen the opportunity for golf facilities to represent to government and hopefully achieve a rethink and some relief and financial support.”
