WHAT WE DO
Custodian Golf is a change management business that was formed with the goal of helping golf clubs reposition themselves and flourish where otherwise they might struggle. We use our market leading data, planning and golf expertise to create a better future for the sport of golf and help clubs adapt and thrive.
OUR PURPOSE
The sole aim of Custodian Golf is to grow and safeguard the future of the sport, by partnering with clubs to develop innovative solutions. The data examines the trends, challenges and vital solutions that will maximise the potential of clubs. This will enable future generations to enjoy the social interactions, and physical and mental health benefits of golf that proved so vital during the pandemic.
"Many golf clubs were built a hundred years ago, and are steeped in tradition, but the world has changed dramatically since then. Custodian Golf can help to deliver the future of golf for clubs around the country.”
Phil Grice, Head of Venues, Custodian Golf
WHY US?
Custodian Golf is a limited company (Ltd) who’s staff have a proven history of delivering industry leading golf and planning projects with skill and integrity, from concept to completion. We have a combined leadership that boasts over 100 years working across golf, planning consultancy, development finance and business development backed up by a retained team of over 80 specialist consultants in offices across the UK.
Let’s not forget one very important factor. We love golf and so we are driven to provide to those clubs seeking to progress towards compelling future goals, the professional support they need and deserve.
OUR TEAM
Phil Grice, Head of Venues
Phil is a seasoned golf professional and consultant with a career spanning over three decades. Growing up on a golf course managed by his parents sparked his lifelong passion for the sport, leading him to pursue a professional career in golf.
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Phil has transformed several golf clubs by increasing memberships and improving operational health. At Royal Norwich, he grew the membership from 400 to over 1,000 significantly lowering the average age of members and creating a vibrant, sustainable community. His efforts in relocating and developing the club earned it second place in the World Golf Development of the Year awards.
Philip Atkinson, Director of Strategic Planning
Philip Atkinson is a chartered town planner and a highly experienced strategic planning professional. Atkinson currently holds the role of Director of Strategic Planning at Custodian Golf since April 2023.
Prior to this, Atkinson held various leadership positions and senior roles working for various planning consultancies, construction and mining companies in the UK and Asia. Atkinson is a keen golfer and a member of Hunstanton Golf Club.
Alasdair Rae, Head of Data
Alasdair is a distinguished former academic and seasoned consultant with a multifaceted career in urban studies, planning and data analysis. Born and raised in Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Alasdair developed an early passion for golf.
Alasdair's vision for Custodian Golf is both ambitious and pragmatic. He seeks to change perceptions about what golf and golf courses can be, advocating for a more open and inclusive approach to the sport. He envisions a future in which golf facilities are seen not just as traditional 18-hole venues but also varied formats that accommodate different lifestyles and demographics. By doing so, he particularly hopes to ensure the sustainability of golf clubs that might otherwise struggle, promoting gradual evolution rather than radical change.
WHAT NEXT?
Download our White Paper
Custodian Golf has conducted an in-depth study of every golfing facility in Britain. Our analysis reveals:
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The impact of climate change and urbanisation
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Demographic shifts affecting membership
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Insights from 100 recently closed clubs
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How to identify your club’s risk/potential profile
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The risks of inaction
Questions? Get in touch: