As part of Surrey Forestry’s ongoing tree programme consultation with Effingham Golf Club, SFL Golf have been working closely with the club to identify and carefully manage the removal of highly sensitive trees. The goal of this project is simple but vital: to improve growing conditions for tees and greens while ensuring minimal disruption to members. By bringing together the expertise of Surrey Forestry, Surrey Tree Care, and SFL Golf, the entire programme is managed seamlessly under one umbrella — saving time, reducing costs, and streamlining communication.
Sensitive Tree Management
Tree removal on golf courses is never a decision taken lightly. At Effingham, a lot of thought has gone into choosing the right trees to remove, in the right locations, to achieve the best long-term outcome for playability and turf health. The priority has been to minimise the visual and practical impact on members while improving growing conditions. This member-focused perspective is something SFL Golf has consistently delivered on past projects and is central to the current work on the 17th and 18th tee complex.
A Comprehensive Approach
What makes this project unique is the ability of our three sister companies to manage every stage in-house. This includes:
• Tree works – carried out with precision and care by Surrey Forestry and Surrey Tree Care
• Remodelling of the 17th green – to enhance playability
• New walkways on both sides of the course – reducing wear and tear from foot traffic
• Irrigation upgrades – a new water system serving the entire course
• A rebuilt 10th tee – providing an improved playing surface
• A redesigned 18th – with two bunkers rebuilt, two new ones created from scratch, and a new bunker liner tested for long-term performance
This joined-up approach means that instead of managing multiple contractors, Effingham can rely on one integrated team to deliver the complete programme.
Innovation and Sustainability
The course’s chalk base creates challenges with stone content, so we are introducing revetted turf and thyme planting. Thyme thrives in sandy conditions, is excellent for managing sand splash, and complements the character of the local landscape.
On the 15th hole, a new tee complex has been created based on health and safety recommendations. This included remodelling the tee, clearing scrub and trees, and creating new black, white, and yellow tees. On the 13th, an outdated two-tier tee has been replaced with a new, larger tee complex, supported by the removal of large declining trees at the rear. This will improve light levels and reduce competition for moisture, supporting healthier turf growth.
Minimal Disturbance for Members
Above all, the most important consideration for any golf club is the member experience. By handling everything in-house, Surrey Forestry, Surrey Tree Care, and SFL Golf complete projects faster and more efficiently, without the delays and disruption that come from coordinating multiple contractors. Members benefit from better playing conditions and improved course design with as little inconvenience as possible.
Why Work With Us?
Surrey Tree Care, Surrey Forestry, and SFL Golf offer a true one-stop shop for golf course improvements. From initial tree programmes to full course remodelling, we bring expertise, efficiency, and innovation together under one roof. This unique structure eliminates wasted time, reduces mobilisation costs, and ensures that every detail is handled by trusted professionals who understand the priorities of golf clubs and their members.
Partner With SFL Golf
If your golf club is considering a tree management programme, course remodelling, or larger-scale improvement projects, SFL Golf can provide the same comprehensive, start-to-finish service that Effingham Golf Club is benefitting from. With Surrey Forestry, Surrey Tree Care, and SFL Golf working together under one umbrella, we ensure projects are delivered efficiently, cost-effectively, and with the least possible disruption to members.
We’d be delighted to discuss how we can support your club in achieving its long-term course goals — please get in touch with SFL Golf to start the conversation.