Rodway Hill Golf Course in Highnam has secured planning permission for six new timber accommodation pods. The decision, granted by Tewkesbury Borough Council, will allow the club to expand its stay-and-play offering. The pods will be constructed off site and delivered fully assembled, ready to be placed directly onto the existing grass surface. No foundations or hardstanding are required, with each pod supported by sturdy railway sleepers. The development will sit beside the existing pod accommodation, which has proven a popular option for visiting golfers. This new phase forms part of the club’s long-term strategy to improve facilities for members and guests alike.
The existing six pods at Rodway Hill have attracted golfers from across the country for several years. Their popularity has turned them into an important year-round income stream for the club. High occupancy during peak golf season helps support the wider course operations and maintenance. The new pods will build on that success, offering additional capacity and modern comforts. Each pod will feature its own ensuite shower and toilet, giving visitors greater privacy and convenience. In contrast, the older pods rely on shared clubhouse facilities for washing and toilet access.
Rodway Hill investment goes beyond accommodation
The new accommodation pods are just one part of a much wider improvement programme underway at Rodway Hill. Over the past 12 months, the club has invested significantly in its facilities, including upgrades to pathways and tee box surrounds. One of the most notable course enhancements has been the improved drainage around the 16th hole. This work supports better year-round play and course protection during wetter months. The club’s resilience to heavy rain has earned it a reputation as one of the most weatherproof golf courses in Gloucestershire. It remains open for play during conditions that close many neighbouring courses.
We had an exclusive chat with Victor Fisk, a Director from Ross Sporting Activities Ltd who own Rodway hill Golf Course, “We’re proud to continue investing in Rodway Hill to enhance the experience for every golfer who visits. The new pods, alongside our wider improvements, will help us welcome even more players to this fantastic course at the gateway to the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.”
The clubhouse and pro shop have also undergone a refresh in the last year, adding to the club’s professional and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors and members now benefit from improved seating, décor and retail displays. These upgrades were designed to reflect the quality of the course and the friendly service Rodway Hill is known for. The club has also enhanced its food and beverage offer to create a more relaxed social space for golfers. This steady programme of reinvestment shows a strong commitment to growth and sustainability. Together, these improvements make Rodway Hill a standout choice for both locals and visitors.
A stay-and-play destination with a difference
The six new pods will be placed between the sixth pod and the ninth green, next to the existing accommodation. They will follow a low-impact approach, using a similar hedgerow system to blend into the surrounding landscape. When the first pods were installed, a hedgerow was planted to screen them and provide privacy for guests. That hedgerow is now well established and will be extended to shield the new units. The result will be a discreet and attractive area for overnight guests, with minimal disruption to the wider course. By keeping the new development in line with the original pods, the club is maintaining a consistent and well-considered design.
This new wave of accommodation is expected to meet growing demand from golfers looking for affordable and accessible stays. Rodway Hill’s reputation as a welcoming and good-value destination makes it a popular choice for society groups and travelling players. With ensuite facilities and immediate access to the course, the new pods offer both comfort and convenience. The ability to stay on site also encourages golfers to play more rounds during their visit. This boosts revenue not just for the club, but for the surrounding area too. The pods are a valuable addition that align with the growing trend for short UK-based golf breaks.
Rodway Hill Golf Course is serving the wider region
Rodway Hill Golf Course is not just a local favourite, but a gateway course for the Forest of Dean, Newent, Ross-on-Wye and nearby areas. Its location makes it a prime base for golfers exploring the west of Gloucestershire and the borders of Herefordshire. Visitors who stay overnight often explore the wider countryside and enjoy the region’s attractions. This contributes to the local tourism economy and brings repeat visitors back to the course. The club’s strategic location helps make it one of the most visited public courses in the region. The addition of new accommodation will help Rodway Hill attract even more golfers in future seasons.
The course welcomes both members and pay-and-play guests, making it accessible and inclusive. With an estimated 400 members and over 30,000 rounds played each year, it is a vital leisure destination for the local community. The club’s openness is a key part of its ethos, helping to grow the game and attract new players. Golfers who visit are often surprised by the quality of the course and the friendliness of the team. Rodway Hill’s mix of affordability and strong playing conditions make it an ideal stepping stone into golf. Its reputation for accessibility and excellent upkeep helps explain its ongoing success.
Sustainable design for long-term use
The new pods are designed with sustainability in mind and follow a minimal impact philosophy. By constructing the pods off site and avoiding concrete foundations, the club is reducing disruption to the landscape. Each pod sits directly on grass, supported by railway sleepers to remain stable and level. This approach allows for future flexibility and preserves the natural character of the land. The hedgerow extension not only offers visual privacy but supports local biodiversity. Rodway Hill has been mindful to balance progress with care for its environment.
The planning statement supporting the application praised this approach as being in line with good rural development principles. It argued that the pods would support the golf club’s sustainability and secure additional income in an uncertain economy. These kinds of small-scale improvements are vital for the survival of rural sports venues. As visitor expectations rise, offering comfortable and modern facilities becomes more important than ever. Rodway Hill’s investment shows that the club understands the need to evolve. The decision to expand gradually and responsibly has been welcomed by both golfers and local planners.
Helping golf thrive in Gloucestershire
Golf courses across the UK are having to adapt to changing conditions and shifting customer expectations. Rodway Hill is taking proactive steps to ensure its long-term relevance and resilience. Its weather-tolerant layout has become one of its standout features, allowing the club to stay open when others cannot. This reliability supports regular play and helps keep members engaged year round. The ability to guarantee rounds even during wet spells is a major draw for golfers. It also helps preserve membership numbers and repeat visitor rates.
Rodway Hill’s continued investment in its course and facilities places it in a strong position going forward. The club understands the importance of making small but meaningful changes that improve the golfer experience. With the new pods, updated clubhouse and ongoing course work, the club is firmly on the front foot. As more golfers look for UK-based golf breaks, Rodway Hill is well placed to attract new visitors. The combination of quality, comfort and accessibility is proving to be a winning formula. It sets a strong example for other community clubs looking to grow sustainably.
The GolfTimes verdict
Rodway Hill Golf Course continues to lead by example when it comes to rural golf development. Its blend of practical investment, thoughtful design and community-minded growth makes it a model for similar clubs. The decision to expand accommodation while protecting the landscape shows strong leadership and long-term planning. With a refreshed clubhouse and major drainage works completed, the club is investing where it matters. These updates will benefit members, attract new players and support the club through changing times.
The new pods are a natural next step for one of Gloucestershire’s most resilient and welcoming golf venues. Positioned as a gateway to the Forest of Dean and beyond, Rodway Hill is a vital part of the regional golf landscape. The course offers much more than just a round of golf. It provides a place to stay, socialise and be part of something growing stronger by the year. For players seeking value and quality in equal measure, Rodway Hill is an easy choice. Expect bookings to rise as word spreads about this new wave of improvement.
