Aspen Links clubhouse still not rebuilt six years after fire

aspen links clubhouse

A resident in Emerald Park, Sask. who owns a home near the Aspen Links golf course said his golfing experience would be complete if the course has a clubhouse.

"A clubhouse is part of the golfing experience,” said Emerald Park resident John Panter.

“You want some place that has a locker so you can change into your golfing attire when you finish 18 holes. You probably want to go to the 19th hole and have a beer and a sandwich when the day is done."

The former clubhouse at the Aspen Links golf course burned to the ground in 2011 because of a kitchen fire. New construction began a few years after the fire, but progress slowed and, according to residents, has now been at a standstill for a few years.

A temporary house has been set up with an office, snacks and tables and chairs inside. But nearby residents of the golf course would like something permanent.

"We want a clubhouse,” said Rural Municipality of Edenwold councillor Wayne Joyce.

“The old one was an important part of the community and it was a focal point for the facility itself."

CTV News reached out to the owner of Aspen Links golf course, but did not receive a response.

"As far as I know with conversations with the owner, his intention is to rebuild,” said Joyce.

Nearby residents say they're supportive and optimistic about the future of the golf course.

"We all have our fingers crossed,” said Panter. “We wish the owner of the golf club success, but success means having the financial resources to operate it successfully and that's what we're concerned about."

Joyce said he’s still optimistic that a new clubhouse will eventually be built at the golf course.