The executive director of Golf NL says the potential land swap between Bally Haly and Clovelly golf courses will take away one of the province’s oldest golf products, but it shouldn’t have a big impact on golfers.

The deal is proceeding for now after a group opposed failed to meet a deadline last week in Supreme Court, which then refused to grant an injunction to stop it.

Bally Haly members have voted about 80 per cent in favour of the deal with Clovelly.

Golf NL’s Greg Hillier says there is a diverse golf market on the northeast Avalon and Bally Haly is a big piece of that product, being the oldest golf course in the province and unique in its layout.

He notes golf loves its traditions and heritage, and a piece of that will be lost if and when the deal is done.

As for an increase in difficulty getting tee times, Hillier believes it could be a bit of an issue for some. But he says the move will help sustain the golf product as a whole on the northeast Avalon.

He says people often forget about courses like The Willows in Holyrood and The Wilds in Salmonier.

“When you combine those with the other existing facilities, there is plenty of accessibility,” says Hillier.

“You just may have to plan ahead a few days in advance rather than getting up in the morning and trying to get a tee time for that afternoon.”