International DesignSTRI has been involved with diverse projects in a wide range of countries associated with specific environmental requirements and working conditions. Collaboration with our Associate Consultant, David Hemstock, has strengthened these international ties and provides an ideal basis for further expansion. Projects range from individual green design through to 27 hole golf course development. The client portfolio also reflects the multi-faceted nature of golf provision from entry level, 'pay-and-play' through to competition standard courses.
“A feasibility study is invaluable during the decision making and planning process as all the implications of development need to be considered before funds are committed to construction.”
Feasibility studies may involve extension of an existing course onto an adjoining area of land or a new site for golf development. Following a thorough site inspection and discussion of the clients requirements a report is prepared. This provides an objective assessment of the design opportunities and outlines construction demands in relation to soil type, drainage and vegetation. In addition there will be an estimate of cost and outline timetable and statement on the need for consultants together with a suggested contract procedure.
“Good layout and design is the key to unlocking the potential of a site.”
The hallmark of STRI design is to provide challenging but fair golf courses which appeal to a wide-range of golfing abilities.
The green complexes are the focal point for the golfer, therefore the applied design must produce a fitting climax to the hole. The green is not considered in isolation as it forms only part of the overall design strategy of the hole which stimulates a mental as well as physical approach to play.
Working Methods“Rigorous construction methods and conditions of contract are specified and applied so that the design concept is successfully translated on the ground.”
When selected contractors are invited to tender on behalf of the client, a comprehensive package of documentation is prepared including contract drawings, specification of work, bills of quantity, conditions of contract and safety requirements (to comply with Construction Design and Management Regulations). The Contractors’ tender submissions will be assessed and the successful Contractor appointed under the guidance of STRI.
The contract will be administered on the basis of appropriate civil engineering protocols. This will involve valuations and issue of payment certificates together with variation orders and practical completion certificates.
Detailed plans will include as a minimum the provision of:
Close on-site supervision is an integral part of the architectural service. The degree of monitoring can be adapted to the requirement of the project and client as part of the overall approach of providing a totally flexible package tailored to specific needs.
Robin Hume Associates provide bespoke irrigation designs and advice on water sourcing as well as overseeing installation and commissioning.
Once the course is constructed, the commitment continues in the form of maintenance visits which are essential during the establishment phase and early stages of maturity of the playing surfaces. STRI Agronomists are regionally based so they can provide rapid response to site conditions and clients requirements.
For more information or specific quotes contact Jonathan Tucker.
Environmental Impact Assessment“STRI is totally independent, so helping to retain its respected position with local authorities and other statutory/non-statutory organisations.”
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a phased procedure that aims to identify and assess the potential environmental effects of development,providing an impartial study of development options. Understanding the effects of development requires a multi-disciplinary approach and STRI can co-ordinate a team to undertake this task.
The completed formal EIA comprises an Environmental Statement, which presents available information and the completed assessment in an impartial format. The Environmental Statement is often accompanied by a Non- Technical Summary which provides the findings of the assessment in clear, unambiguous language.
The phased approach to EIA is systematic and includes;
The resulting EIA is produced in the form of an Environmental Statement, with Non-Technical Summary as required.
Golf courses are covered by Schedule 2 of the Town and Country Planning (EIA) (England and Wales) Regulations 1999, where proposed golf course developments of an area greater than 0.5 hectares are subject to the regulations. The LPA is then to determine, via the screening process, whether the EIA process is considered necessary.
When an EIA is deemed necessary by the LPA, the environmental topics to be covered by the EIA process can be wide ranging and often include;
The methodology used in the assessment of these issues varies from topic to topic, but will include assessment of baseline conditions and potential impacts via correspondence with relevant Statutory Consultees (such as the Environment Agency, SEPA, English Nature, Local Authorities), review of available plans/aerial photographs and via walkover surveys.
