Bad Weather Policy

Bad Weather Policy – Willow Valley Golf Club

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of members, guests, and staff while protecting the golf course during periods of adverse weather.

Course Closure
The Golf Club reserves the right to close the course, practice facilities, or specific holes when weather conditions make play unsafe or risk damage to the course.

Fog
In the event of heavy fog on and around the golf course, the decision to stop play may lie with the golfers as the course conditions can change from minute to minute, especially on lower laying areas. If the fog is heavy enough that the back of the academy course can’t be seen from the clubhouse, all three golf courses will be closed until the fog clears and nobody will be allowed to begin their round as visibility will be under 200 yards. In the event that the courses need to close during play, a member of staff will sound the klaxon and make their way round the groups informing them that they should stop play for their own safety.

Lightning
In the event of lightning, golfers out on the course must stop play and take shelter away from trees until the lightning has moved away. Play must not commence until a period of 15 minutes has passed since the last lightning strike. Should conditions be bad enough, a member of staff will sound the klaxon, and all golfers must then leave the courses when safe to do so.

Heavy Rain/Flooding/Standing Water
When heavy rain is expected, the holes are moved to higher or drier ground, where possible. If it is still impossible to putt, then the course will be temporarily closed and play suspended.

Snow and Ice
It may be necessary during colder periods to close the courses if conditions are not deemed adequate for the golfers to safely walk on.

High winds
The Club may suspend play or close the course when wind conditions create an unacceptable risk to the safety of members, guests, and staff, or where there is a significant risk of damage to the course or property. Such risks may include falling branches, uprooted trees, flying debris, or any other hazards arising from high winds.

Temporary Suspension of Play
Play may be suspended during a round due to adverse weather conditions.
Players must:
• Leave the course immediately if instructed by club staff.
• Stop play immediately upon hearing any warning signal for lightning or dangerous weather.
• Follow all staff instructions regarding evacuation and safety procedures.

Buggy Restrictions
Golf buggies may be restricted or prohibited during wet weather to protect the course and ensure safety.
The club reserves the right to:
• Restrict buggies to designated routes.
• Implement a 90-degree rule.
• Suspend buggy use altogether.

Medical exemptions will be considered where practical and safe.

Communication
Course status updates will be communicated via:
Club website/social media
Member email
Members and visitors are encouraged to check course conditions before travelling.