St Andrews backflips on 'joke' plan to 'maim' iconic Swilcan Bridge at The Old Course
The St Andrews Links Trust has backflipped on plans to pave an area of turf leading up to the famous Swilcan Bridge at The Old Course.
The embarrassing about-face comes in the wake of heavy criticism following an announcement from the Trust on Monday.
A number of pundits hit out at a proposal to build a large stoned area starting several metres before the foot of the bridge, which on the 18th fairway crosses a small creek running through the iconic Scotland course.
READ MORE: Aussie skipper retires from international cricket
READ MORE: Club icon ends 17-year stand-off with Rabbitohs
READ MORE: Former Premier League star missing in disaster
The Swilcan Bridge, which is more than 700 years old and made of stone, has historically been used as a makeshift farewell podium for a number of golfing greats, including Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson.
Less than 24 hours after announcing the works, the St Andrew Links Trust released another statement.
Tiger Woods acknowledges the crowd as he crosses the Swilcan Bridge during The 150th Open at St Andrews Old Course in 2022. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) Getty
"The stonework at the approach and exit of the bridge was identified as one possible long-term solution, however while this installation would have provided some protection, in this instance we believe we are unable to create a look which is in keeping with its iconic setting and have taken the decision to remove it," it said.
"We have also taken on feedback from many partners and stakeholders as well as the golfing public and we would like to thank everyone who has been in touch for their contribution to the issue.
"The widespread attention and commentary is indicative of the regard in which St Andrews is held around the world and we are conscious of our role in preserving this heritage while recognising its hallowed grounds have continued to evolve to meet demands for more than 600 years.
"In the coming days our team will be reinstating the area with turf. We would like to thank golfers for their patience as we continue this work.
"In the meantime we will continue to explore alternative options for a permanent solution and will work with all relevant partners, including Fife Council, and key stakeholders."
The criticism of the initial announcement was brutal.
Former Australian professional Mark Allen was damning in his assessment of the works.
"This is... very poor," Allen tweeted.
"What's wrong with simply replacing the grass 'drop-in pitch style' when the turf wears out?
"I just can't believe a sane human thought it would be a good idea. It has to be a joke... right?"
Sports Illustrated reporter Alex Miceli likened the works to a "cobblestone helicopter pad".
"What are the laws in Scotland about disfiguring or maiming a 700-year-old plus architectural marvel?" he wrote.
"That question must be asked after seeing what the Links Trust has done to the Swilcan Bridge, which makes you wonder, are they completely out of their minds?
"Please get rid of the joker that thought building a brick runway made sense. It doesn't."
The Open 2022: Aussie golf icon's ashes scattered on 18th green hours prior to Cameron Smith's victory
