Golf Village, Knokke

In July 2006, the Flemish government approved the Golf Memorandum II, aimed at meeting growing demand for golf facilities by creating additional golf courses. As Knokke's existing golf club, established in 1899, could not clear its long membership waiting list, it became obvious that a second golf course had become an absolute necessity. The golf course quickly became part of a large urban development that also included a new hospital, a swimming pool, a recreational area and a hotel with congress facilities.

Ghelamco Group’s Golf Village will consist of a congress centre capable of hosting international conferences and symposiums, a top quality hotel, suites, high cuisine restaurants, high end retail opportunities and, of course, a golf course with its clubhouse. The Golf Village is an important part of the town council's plans to re-establish Knokke as a major tourist destination capable of hosting world golf events and conferences. Golf Village guests will have direct access to the new golf course, but will also be within walking distance of the beach and of Knokke’s prime shopping area.

With the Scottish golf course architect Steve Marnoch and his Belgian partner Dimitri van Hauwaert, Ghelamco Group found the ideal tandem to design a unique 27 holes golf course. Each section of nine holes has its own character based on its predominant terrain - water, sand and woodlands. In addition, the golf complex will have a practice area, a driving range and a new clubhouse with parking.

Currently, the project is going through its preparatory phases, including an environmental impact study. The entire project has the full support of the Knokke town council. Ghelamco Group is confident that the Golf Village’s construction will start in 2011.