Luton Hoo has closed its doors for a major refurbishment as its owners push ahead with plans to transform the historic estate into a championship-standard venue capable of hosting golf’s Ryder Cup in 2035.
The Arora Group, who own the site, has previously described its ambition to host the Ryder Cup as “very real and realistic”, with plans for a revived Luton Hoo set to bring major social and economic benefits to the area.
The five-star hotel and golf resort, just outside Luton, is reported to be one of four English venues bidding to stage the event — alongside The Belfry, the London Golf Club in Kent, and a proposed new course at Hulton Park in Bolton. The last time England hosted the Ryder Cup was at The Belfry in 2002.
The closure was confirmed in a Facebook post by Luton Hoo, which read: “From grand stays to quiet moments, your memories at Luton Hoo have shaped the legacy we’re proud to carry forward. We’ve closed for now, but the next chapter will be worth the wait.”
The post described the refurbishment as “an extensive programme of renewal to ensure this iconic property continues to enchant guests for generations to come,” adding: “This is not goodbye, it is the beginning of something extraordinary.”
Luton Hoo’s owners, The Arora Group, last month secured approval from Central Bedfordshire Council — subject to referral to the Secretary of State — to remodel and extend the golf course and build a new clubhouse and offices.
The group’s director of projects and developments, Ryan Nicholls, told councillors the company was determined to safeguard and revitalise the historic site.
“We’re incredibly proud to be the current custodians of Luton Hoo,” he said. “It’s a wonderful historic site in need of love, care and protection to ensure its survival for future centuries and generations.”
The revised plans have been shaped by input from golfing legend Gary Player, Ryder Cup star Justin Rose and the Ryder Cup Europe team, which last week retained the famous trophy with a 13-15 over the USA in New York.
Nicholls said the Luton Hoo design changes followed extensive consultation aimed at improving the spectator experience while protecting the estate’s natural features.
“It was identified there were difficulties with spectator viewing on the 14th and 15th holes, located on the eastern side of the north lake,” he said. “To avoid further tree clearance, we’ve proposed a modification that introduces additional holes.
“The proposal of a 21-hole golf course would allow golfers to choose their route at hole 14, providing a unique selling point. This change also allows the delivery of an 18-hole course with adequate spectator viewing, which the Ryder Cup team have advised is an acceptable arrangement.”
He said the new layout would ensure the course meets the highest standards for hosting major tournaments, while preserving the landscape and delivering heritage improvements such as the desilting of the north lake and ecological enhancements.
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