WGM Knowledge Hub

Golf course maintenance is undergoing a fundamental shift, particularly across the South of England. Courses in Hampshire, Wiltshire and Surrey face growing pressure to deliver consistently high playing standards while managing staffing challenges, rising operational costs and increasing environmental expectations.

Traditional mowing methods, while familiar, are becoming harder to sustain at scale. Factors such as fuel dependency and mechanical wear are pushing many clubs to explore smarter, more efficient golf course solutions. This is where robotic mowing is beginning to redefine what modern course maintenance looks like.

Rather than replacing greenkeeping expertise, robotic mowers support it. By automating repetitive mowing tasks, they allow skilled staff to focus on drainage, presentation, turf health and member experience. Over time, this shift leads to better course conditions and more resilient maintenance programmes.

At Winchester Garden Machinery (WGM), this change is already well underway. Our director, Jason Nettle is working closely with golf clubs across Surrey, Hampshire and Wiltshire, WGM provides bespoke robotic mowing solutions that are tailored to the unique layout and maintenance goals of each course, rather than relying on off-the-shelf installations.

A Dedicated Robotics Team with On-Site Expertise

WGM has a dedicated robotics team specialising in professional autonomous mowing systems for large turf environments, including golf courses and estates. This team carries out on-site consultations, installation planning and system configuration to ensure robotic mowers integrate smoothly into existing maintenance programmes.

From initial feasibility assessments through to commissioning and ongoing support, WGM’s robotics specialists work directly with course managers and greenkeepers. This hands-on approach helps ensure that systems such as the Kress K237E are deployed effectively, safely and with minimal disruption to play.

Supporting Golf Courses Beyond Installation

Robotic mowing is a long-term investment, and WGM supports golf courses well beyond the initial setup. Ongoing services include system optimisation, seasonal adjustments and technical support to ensure consistent performance throughout the year.

For clubs considering robotic mowing as part of their future maintenance strategy, this level of support provides reassurance that expert help is always available when needed.

 

Improving Turf Consistency and Playing Conditions with Robotic Mowing

Consistency is one of the most important factors in golf course presentation. Members may not always notice individual maintenance tasks, but they immediately notice uneven fairways or inconsistent playing surfaces.

Robotic mowing addresses this by maintaining turf at a steady height throughout the week. Frequent light trims encourage denser grass growth and reduce stress on the plant, which can lead to stronger, more resilient turf over time.

For courses competing for members, this consistency can be a key differentiator. Well-presented fairways and practice areas contribute directly to player satisfaction and course reputation.

Through ongoing support and seasonal adjustments, WGM helps courses refine robotic mowing schedules to suit changing growth patterns and weather conditions, ensuring consistent results year-round.

Sustainability, Staffing and Smarter Use of Resources

Sustainability is no longer a secondary concern for golf courses. Environmental responsibility, noise reduction and fuel use are now central considerations in course management decisions.

Robotic mowers contribute positively by reducing emissions, lowering noise levels and decreasing dependence on fuel-powered machinery. They also reduce mechanical wear, which can extend the lifespan of traditional equipment still used elsewhere on the course.

Equally important is the impact on staffing. By automating routine mowing, greenkeeping teams can focus on skilled tasks that directly improve course quality. For courses facing staffing pressures, this smarter allocation of time can be transformative.

Winchester Garden Machinery works with golf clubs to position robotic mowing as part of a wider, long-term maintenance strategy rather than a short-term fix.