Popular North Shore Golf Course Closing March 31

MIDDLETON, MA -- In a note to members Thursday, the Parker family said it would close its par-three Middleton Golf Course on March 31. The 52-acre property is being sold to the town of Middleton, which plans to use it for new municipal buildings.

"Initially the plan was to be able to continue operating for two more seasons, but because of potential legal complications that have come to light as they go through the purchase and sale process with the Town, the owners have made the difficult decision to close sooner," the note said. "It has been a great 50+ years. We will miss all our golfing friends and family!"

Anyone who purchased a 2019 discount membership will be mailed a refund check. Shop credits and gift cards will be honored during normal business hours through the closing date. The course will continue to operate through March 31.

While 23.8 million people in the U.S. play golf, the industry has seen a growing number of course closures in recent years. In 2017, according to the National Golf Foundations, 205 18-hold courses closed, while just 15 new course opened in the U.S.

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Photo by Middleton Golf Course.

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).