Work underway on new 10-bay GolfPod at Rickmansworth Golf Course

The site will include ten covered practice bays overlooking a synthetic outfield, providing a weatherproof space for year-round use. The facility is designed to be largely automated, with technology allowing players to track their shots and take part in interactive games.

Construction is underway on an unused area of grass opposite the clubhouse, on the site's Par 3 and Footgolf course, with the facility due to open next month.

The bays will feature Toptracer ball-tracking technology, integrated ball management and lighting systems. Players will be able to access shot data, practise specific aspects of their game and take part in interactive games and virtual golf.

The facility is designed to appeal to a wide range of people, from those picking up a golf club for the first time to experienced players looking to sharpen their technique. A coaching programme will also be available, offering opportunities for golfers of different ages and abilities to develop their game.

Sessions will be available daily, with prices starting from £5 for 30 balls, £9 for 60 balls and £13 for 100 balls.

The Rickmansworth facility will be GolfPod's third location, following existing sites at Cranham Golf Course and Basildon Sporting Village.

John Sewell, Area Contract Manager at Everyone Active, said: "It's great to see work underway on the new GolfPod at Rickmansworth Golf Course.

"The course already offers a great range of ways to enjoy the sport, from our 18-hole and Par 3 courses to Footgolf, and the new GolfPod will add something different to that mix. We're looking forward to seeing it take shape and welcoming people to try it out when it opens in October."

Mike Stone, Managing Director of GolfPod, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be bringing GolfPod to Rickmansworth and to be working with Everyone Active once again.

“Our goal has always been to get more people playing golf. That means creating facilities that are accessible, welcoming and easy to use, whether you’re working on your game, picking up a club for the first time or bringing the family along to have some fun.

“Technology is a huge part of that experience. We want our golfers to have access to technology they can trust, which is why we’ve invested heavily in our Toptracer systems and the quality of every part of the range experience.

“The success we’ve seen at Cranham and Basildon has shown us there’s a real appetite for a different kind of golf experience, and Rickmansworth is the perfect location for the next stage of our growth.”

Cllr Chris Lloyd, Three Rivers District Council’s Lead Member for Leisure, said: “This is an exciting addition to Rickmansworth Golf Course that will enable more people to enjoy the game of golf in an accessible environment and feel the social and health benefits it gives.

“The new pods are perfect for anyone. Whether you are a beginner learning the basics of golf or an experienced player who wants to use the latest technology to practice in any weather condition, it has something for everyone, and I look forward to having a go myself.”

Once complete, GolfPod will provide a new way for local residents and visitors to enjoy the sport and make use of the wider facilities available at Rickmansworth Golf Course.

Rickmansworth Golf Course is managed by Everyone Active on behalf of Three Rivers District Council, alongside South Oxhey Leisure Centre and William Penn Leisure Centre.

The new facility will complement the existing golf offer at the site, which includes an 18-hole golf course, nine-hole Par 3 course, Footgolf course and a clubhouse offering food and drink.