07 February 2023 , 12:12
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St Andrews chiefs have caved on the renovation work made to the iconic Swilcan Bridge after Sir Nick Faldo led a strong backlash against the changes to the historic Old Course feature.
The Old Course has now been forced to remove a bizarre paved area next to the bridge that was designed to protect the surrounding grass on the 18th hole.
Estimated to be around 700 years old, the Swilcan Bridge represents the most famous photo opportunity in golf and is placed on arguably the most hallowed turf in the sport.
Legends including Jack Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros and Tiger Woods, have been pictured walked across the bridge on their way to becoming Open champion or bidding farewell to the Old Course.
And, as fans continue to replicate the famous photos, the inevitable foot traffic around the historic crossing has led to a muddy approach, with the St Andrews Links Trust stating that the area regularly falls into disrepair.
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But an out-of-character stonework solution was met with anger on social media as golf fans claimed the precious walkway resembled a "DIY garden patio."
This image shows the damage on the Swilcan Bridge approach without the pavingSix-time major champion Faldo, who won on the famous Fife links in 1990, asked: "If you've travelled halfway around the world for your bucket list round at St Andrews, would you rather leave with a bit of historic dirt on your shoes or a few cement mix scraps?"
Outspoken English pro Eddie Pepperell added: "It’s an absolute mess. The most famous bridge in golf, and look at what some f****** has come up with! Hard to believe."
And the huge wave of online criticism has prompted a welcome U-turn from course officials, with an announcement on Monday confirming the area surrounding the bridge will soon be "reinstated with turf."
Woods and other golfing icons have all walked the famous bridge (Ian Rutherford/REX/Shutterstock)A St Andrews statement read: "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."