City council makes statement on future of Ashton Court disc golf course

Alternative sites are now being sought for the popular disc golf course at Ashton Court, Bristol City Council has confirmed.

Disc golf, also known as ‘frisbee golf’, is a flying disc sport in which players throw a disc at a target, played using rules similar to golf.

More than 1,200 people signed a petition to save the popular disc golf course from being removed from Ashton Court but Bristol City Council says it is now seeking to find an alternative site for the popular pastime.

A spokesperson from Bristol City Council said: “The disc golf course to the south of Ashton Court Estate sits within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

“This means the landscape is protected and must be managed in a way that conserves its special features, including the plants and wildlife there.

“Concerns have been raised about the impact of disc golf on the landscape and associated disturbance to the plants and wildlife.

“We are working with the Yeti disc golf club, who maintain the course, to consider ways to balance the need to preserve the local environment and their desire to remain where they are.

“We are also exploring alternative sites which would allow them to fulfil their current wish to expand the sport.”

Last month, Duncan Fraser, who launched the petition, said that the course at the Ashton Court Estate is a ‘great source of enjoyment’ for the community along with a local club.

The pandemic saw the sport grow exponentially in the UK, and as it is ‘low impact and requires minimal infrastructure’ Mr Fraser said it made an ideal addition to a public park such as Ashton Court.

Another player who signed the petition was David Hassell who said: “Instead of removing it I’d love to see the estate invest in it and partner with the local club to promote and improve what is a wonderful facility for the local and wider community.”

And fellow disc golfer Guy Middleton said: “Disc golf has been an incredible sport. It’s improved my mental and physical health and it would be a travesty if the course was removed.”