Pangaea, Lawrie partner on two-course Scottish redesign

Plans to enhance the playing experience at Darley and Belleisle golf courses in South Ayrshire, Scotland, have taken a step forward: Pangaea Golf Architecture co-founders and directors Stuart Rennie and Jeff Danner are leading the two-course project in collaboration with Open winner Paul Lawrie.

Rennie and Danner, who have more than 20 years of experience and a reputation for innovative, environmentally conscious design, have started site reconnaissance, including topographical and ecological surveys. The initial design concepts are expected to be unveiled this summer.

“Having grown up playing these historic courses as Darley and Belleisle is an exciting opportunity to bring our passion and expertise in design to get it right,” Rennie said. “Our goal is to enhance the playability and natural beauty of these courses, ensuring they meet the highest standards for golfers of all levels.”

Danner added that, “Working on two very different courses presents a unique dynamic to the design process. On the one hand, we are looking to leverage and elevate the firm and fast attributes of a sandy site with endless potential in the Darley. On the other hand, at Belleisle, we have an opportunity to immerse ourselves in James Braid’s legacy and figure out how to pay tribute while meeting the needs of modern golfers.”

Lawrie, who won The Open in 1999 and vice-captained the European Ryder Cup team in 2016, will provide valuable input into the redesigns from a player’s perspective. His insights will ensure that the new designs align with the needs and expectations of the golfing community.

As part of a commitment to community engagement, once the initial design concepts are developed, they will be shared with the public. This will allow golfers and community members to offer their valuable feedback on the future of the courses, ensuring that the enhancements reflect the community’s needs and desires.

“This project highlights our commitment to enriching our golfing legacy,” said councilor Brian Connolly, portfolio holder for sport and leisure. “It’s also really exciting to have Paul Lawrie involved. His worldwide reputation as a Major winner and Ryder Cup player makes him the ideal man to oversee this project.

“We’re all looking forward to working with Paul and Pangaea.”

Pangaea Golf Architecture focuses on a holistic approach to golf course design. The firm’s Scottish-American fusion — Rennie is based in Scotland, with Danner based in California — offers golf architecture, landscape architecture, master planning, environmental consultancy and construction project management, all tailored to the unique demands of the golf industry at home and around the world.