Ashton Court disc golf: Hundreds sign petition to save course

More than 1,200 people have signed a petition to save a popular disc golf course that players claim is in danger of being removed from a Bristol beauty spot.

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.

But ‘sadly a decision [had] been made to have the course removed’, he added, ‘derailing the sport’s growth’ and negatively impacting ‘the many people who have found solace’ on the grounds.

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

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.

The petition went on: “With its continued growth and popularity for all ages there should be a home for the sport in a public park.

“Without support from you, the course will be removed in its entirety, breaking an ever-growing community of disc golfers.”

Responding to the matter, a spokesperson from Bristol City Council said the situation wasn’t ‘as clear cut’ as the petition made out and that they needed more clarity before they could comment.

They also revealed a briefing had been set up for early September with the authority’s cabinet lead, parks and legal teams to assess the situation and options for the site.

Signing the petition, David Hassell said: “I’ve played several disc golf courses across the south of England, and Ashton Court is one of my favourite.

“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 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.”