The Belfry owners deny historic golf club will be put up for sale

Sep 5 2010 by Adam Aspinall, Sunday Mercury

IT is one of the most famous locations in the world of sport.

The Belfry in Sutton Coldfield has played host to some of the biggest stars in golf over the years after hosting the prestigious Ryder Cup four times.

But reports yesterday claimed the revered sporting institution may be facing tough financial times – and could even be put up for sale.

Belfry owner Sean Quinn is said to have hired top accountancy firm Ernst & Young to advise him on debt refinancing, in a move to retain control of the property.

The businessman, once one of Ireland’s richest men, bought the Warwickshire golf club and hotel complex from the De Vere Group for £186 million five years ago.

But his plans to spend another £150 million turning it into the “Gleneagles of the South” have been stalled by the recession.

There have been widespread rumours for some time that The Belfry may have to be sold, although property experts believe it could now be worth as little as £120 million.

The hotel and its stunning golf course serve as the UK headquarters of the Professional Golfers’ Association – and to many it is the spiritual home of the Ryder Cup. Over the years The Belfry has become synonymous with golf and has become a Mecca for both professional and amateur players.