Plans outlined for transformation of 19th century golf club

The new owner of a 19th century Derbyshire golf club has outlined details of plans to transform the 200-acre site into a landmark lifestyle destination.CHARJEN Capital purchased Horsley Lodge Golf Club earlier this year. Led by Derbyshire-based entrepreneur Marc Brough, Charjen has kickstarted its overarching programme by enhancing the existing golf course and members’ areas, as well as refurbishing 14 hotel rooms and creating two new ones.In three months since the purchase, Charjen has invested £500,000 on works to the golf course and equipment, members’ area and bar.The company has also applied for planning permission to demolish existing conservatories within the main members’ building to create new restaurants and terraces.Horsley Lodge, which was originally built by the Earl of Sitwell as a wedding present for his son in 1863, is located in the foothills of the Peak District.Brough said: “We saw an opportunity to own one of Derbyshire’s finest golf courses in a stunning location and have grand plans to enhance the golf course itself, as well as upgrade the hotel and venue space in a sensitive and sustainable manner.”We have a three-year strategy to make the most of this vast, stunning destination, creating a larger wedding venue, enhanced facilities for golfers – including a new driving range with simulators – more rooms for guests to stay and, of course, an elevated dining experience for all, supporting local producers.”We intend to build on the existing success of Horsley Lodge, investing in a planned programme of works. We have short-term plans for refurbishment which includes the upgrading of the current wedding venue on site, and longer-term plans to create fantastic new facilities.”In its current application to Amber Valley Borough Council, CHARJEN’s architect Sigma has set out designs to create a brasserie of 85 covers, a fine dining space with 18 covers and a chef’s table for eight people and private dining space for 22. There would also be a kitchen garden growing produce for the restaurants.If planning is approved, the restaurants are expected to open later this year.”We are really excited about the new restaurants – creating a destination for diners locally and nationally and using the finest local producers in Derbyshire,” added Brough. “Horsley Lodge will be opening its doors to members and non-members alike to enjoy all the fantastic upcoming facilities that we have in store.”The golf course will be at its core, and one we want to appeal to local and regional golfers and guests, but also create a venue that appeals to a national audience with the ‘Soho House’ crowd in mind.”We intend to put Horsley Lodge on the map as a great place to play golf, stay a few days, enjoy our fantastic dining experiences and leisure facilities and, of course, to enjoy this stunning part of Derbyshire and all that it has to offer.”In the longer term, the company intends to build a new wedding venue with space for hundreds of guests, further accommodation throughout the estate, a new driving range and simulators, spa facilities and swimming pools.CHARJEN purchased Horsley Lodge from the Salt family. Lawyers at Browne Jacobson were involved in the deal.