Alan Hardy says it is ‘with mixed emotions’ that he has sold his Nottinghamshire golf course. It marks the end of 14 years at the helm of The Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club, known as The Nottinghamshire, near Stragglethorpe.
In this time, the former Notts County owner has developed it from a traditional but struggling golf club to a renowned hospitality complex. The club is set within 340 acres of land and is the only 36-hole golf club in Nottinghamshire, boasting other facilities such as a restaurant, a wedding venue, and a luxurious 30-bedroom boutique hotel.
Following the investments, the golf club now only makes up only half of the business’ revenue. Mr Hardy confirmed he has sold the golf club – previously known as Cotgrave Place – to the UK’s largest country club operator, The Club Company.
Mr Hardy said: “It is with mixed emotions that I can confirm that I’ve come to the end of my 14 year journey with The Nottinghamshire. It is a journey that I am incredibly proud of, having met, worked and played with a wonderful number of people along the way.
“I am proud that we’ve created something special in that time and now have a fantastic team of over 100 people across the venues, in the clubhouse, the back office and out on the course, all of whom I will miss dearly. The Nottinghamshire now joins The Club Company as their 18th club, somewhat apt as I leave them in their more than capable hands.”
The Club Company’s country clubs are mostly located in central and southern England and offer a range of premium facilities such as swimming, tennis courts, eateries and health and fitness facilities. Richard Calvert, chief executive officer of The Club Company, said: “We are delighted to welcome The Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club into The Club Company portfolio.
“Over the last few months, I have personally experienced the dedication and professionalism of the team at The Nottinghamshire. This stunning club has an outstanding reputation and has been transformed under the ownership of Alan.
“We are committed to building on this legacy and will continue to invest in the club and its facilities for the benefit of members and visitors alike.” Mr Hardy added: “This has been a truly amazing journey during which we have transformed this club into something truly spectacular.
“Being in the leisure sector, where people choose to spend their spare time and money is uplifting and inspiring. We have taken this place from an incredibly difficult position, creating a wonderfully bright future as we have done that.
“Leaving a legacy here has been my driving force and I have loved every single moment. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this story.”
