Hill Barn has been sold by Worthing Borough Council for £2m to Richard Haygarth, the owner of Chichester GC.

Some time ago the council decided to sell Hill Barn after it became clear the course needed an urgent capital injection. It was also agreed to part with the Brooklands par three course and the sale of this property on the sea front is pending.

Proceeds of the sales will be used to fund other council-owned leisure activities. Haygarth says the purchase is great news for Hill Barn's 500 season ticket holders and Chichester members as well.

"Hill Barn is a beautiful course with a great deal of heritage. It is clear that in recent years the course has suffered from a lack of investment and we will be addressing that with a financial commitment of nearly £400,000 in the first year and significant further year-on-year investments.

"This will enable us to re-establish the course as one of the most beautiful and enjoyable to play in the region.

"At the same time we are committed to maintaining the course's accessibility and have no plans to change its status as a public access pay and play facility."

Malcolm Pettit, the golf club secretary, welcomed the change of owner.

"It is good news and I can see it being nothing but good for the club and the course as I understand new machinery will be coming in and irrigation work done.

"The course badly needs attention and a successful Hill Barn will be a great benefit to the town as well. As a club we look forward to talking with the new owner."

Part of the deal is reciprocal playing arrangements between the Chichester and Hill Barn courses.

Councillor Maurice Tucker, a member of the leisure and culture committee is convinced the sale is a fillip for the golfers.

He said: "The course is in need of an injection of capital, which we aren't at the moment able to provide."