Dinsdale Golf Club closes its greens after 116 years

Dinsdale Spa, off Neasham Road, announced earlier this year that it would be closing its greens on April 1 after more than a century.

The news came as a major shock to the region’s golfing community – with a letter from the owners, who took over in 2018, saying it was an “incredibly difficult decision”. 

Since the announcement to members, questions have remained over the future of the 18-hole course and what will become of the site. 

Speculation has been rife over what could become of the land – with some fearing it could be used to facilitate new housing developments. 

Dinsdale Golf Club (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

But Darlington Borough Council has now confirmed that no planning applications have been made in relation to the site. 

A council spokesperson said: “We have not received any planning applications in relation to the golf club.”

It comes after Cllr Colin Pease, independent ward councillor for Sadberge and Middleton St George, said last week that he was told no enquiries had been made about the land.  

Dinsdale Spa is now the third course near or in Darlington to close in recent times after the original Blackwell Grange course in 2013 and Hallgarth Hotel’s nine holes in 2025.

The owners of the Dinsdale Golf Club have not issued a public statement on the closure, but did send a letter to members confirming the news. 

The letter said: “There is never a perfect way to make these announcements, however, we wanted to write to you personally to let you know that Dinsdale Golf Club will be closing from April 1.

Dinsdale Golf Club (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

“This has been an incredibly difficult decision and not one we have taken lightly.

“Since arriving in 2018, we have poured our hearts into the club, improving the course, enhancing the facilities and rebuilding Dinsdale. 

“The club has been far more than a business to us, it’s been a central part of our lives. 

“However, after dedicating ourselves fully to the day-to-day demands, we have come to the decision that now is the right time to step away and prioritise our families and other parts of life that have taken a back seat for far too long.”

Many have voiced their sadness over the closure of the club, including Hurworth Councillor Lorraine Tostevin, who said it was a “real shame”.

The Northern Echo has attempted to contact the club owners on several occasions but has yet to receive any correspondence.