Community golf club receives £290,000 grant for redevelopment venture

ONE of the country’s leading renewable energy firms has made its largest-ever grant award to a golf club in South Lanarkshire.

The £290,000 grant awarded by OnPath Energy equates to 60% of the £440,357 required to cover the total cost of the project.

The grant was awarded by South Lanarkshire Council’s Renewable Energy Fund (REF) which will support Leadhills Golf Club in its ambitious plan to rebuild a new, energy-efficient clubhouse and storage unit, alongside implementing green energy solutions.

A treasured community asset for over 85 years, the golf club has recently received planning permission for the new clubhouse and is now preparing to move to the next stage of tendering for the project.

The grant, from OnPath Energy (formerly Banks Renewables), will ensure that this critical redevelopment is built to the highest environmental standards, aligning with modern sustainability practices.

Aileen McCreadie, Partnerships and Community Manager at OnPath Energy said: “This is our largest single grant award yet, and reflects our commitment to supporting projects that combine sustainability with community benefit.

“Leadhills Golf Club is a key part of life in this area, and we’re excited to help make their new clubhouse a beacon of green energy solutions.

“This project is a perfect example of how renewable energy can support local communities while promoting sustainable tourism and economic development.”

Thefunding will support a range of sustainable technologies, including solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and upgraded heating systems, to minimise the club’s carbon footprint.

The club collaborates closely with local businesses, such as the village hotel and Airbnb providers, who purchase memberships for their guests, encouraging tourism and supporting the wider local economy.

Amanda Davis, Development Officer for Leadhills Golf Club, said: “This is an incredible step forward for us. The grant from OnPath Energy means we can move ahead with our plans to rebuild a new, sustainable clubhouse that not only meets the needs of our members but also serves the broader community.

“We’ve had tremendous support from locals, businesses, and schools, all of whom see this project as a key part of the future for Leadhills.

“The energy solutions we are incorporating will ensure we remain a focal point for the village while leading the way in sustainable tourism.”

Leadhills Golf Club is also part of a broader Community Action Plan currently underway, which reflects the strong community desire to invest in the club as a driving force for tourism and local development.

With more day visitors eager to experience the course, the redevelopment will play a pivotal role in supporting other local businesses, such as shops, restaurants, and accommodations, strengthening the area’s appeal as a destination.

Amanda added: “We’ve held community consultation events, including a Facebook campaign and an open session in the village hall, where we received fantastic feedback. Local businesses, schools, and even the football club have written letters of support, highlighting the excitement around this development.

“The new clubhouse will not only benefit golfers but will also provide a reason for more visitors to come and enjoy the beauty of Leadhills and its surrounding areas.”

The grant from OnPath Energy comes as part of the company’s REF grant which is managed and distributed by South Lanarkshire Council utilising funding generated from OnPath Energy’s nearby Middle Muir Wind Farm.

South Lanarkshire Council recently increased wind farm grant funding. The changes include higher funding percentages, support for longer-term projects, and a new fund to help rural communities maintain local facilities.

Councillor Robert Brown from South Lanarkshire Council said: “The REF fund is about more than just providing financial support – it’s about creating long-term benefits for communities.

“By helping Leadhills Golf Club modernise its facilities and adopt sustainable practices, the fund is not only helping to preserve an important part of local heritage but also contributing to the economic vitality of the area.”

Middle Muir Wind Farm, located south east of Douglas, is a 15-turbine site that has been generating renewable energy since 2018. In its lifetime Middle Muir Wind Farm will provide more than £10 million in community benefit funds, plus in the first five years of operation it has awarded over £637,500 for local employment and training initiatives.

Middle Muir is one of three OnPath Energy’s operating sites in South Lanarkshire delivering social, environmental and economic benefits for local people. OnPath has also successfully delivered Kype Muir and Kype Muir Wind Farm Extension, located approximately 5km south of the town of Strathaven, which together will provide community benefits equating to more than £21 million over their lifetime.

For more information on community funds visit Community Funds and Investment – OnPath Energy

Find out more at www.onpathenergy.com.