Addition of driving range, shortening of Martin course, among possible changes at Chedoke Golf Course

A city consultant says a re-purposing of the Chedoke Golf Course site is needed to meet changing consumer demand.

Stephen Johnston of Global Golf Advisors says millennials and gen-Xers “lack leisure time,” and are looking to “play when they can.”

As a result, Johnston adds that there’s a demand for “fewer than 18 holes,” in the form of nine-hole and even six-hole courses, as well as a driving range and practice facilities.

The city-owned Chedoke Golf Course is currently home to a pair of 18-hole courses, but changes in the years ahead could include a shortening of the Martin course to allow for the construction of a driving range.

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Rob Gatto, Hamilton’s manager of Stadium and Golf Operations, says they’ll be looking at all options as they renew their business plan over the next five years.

Coun. Aidan Johnson adds that the city is missing out on an opportunity to “make money” by hosting weddings and other events at the venue.

Johnson says he’s committed to replacing what he calls Chedoke’s “embarrassing and inadequate” clubhouse.