THERE'S no let-up in the development of ever better new golf courses.

The latest is based on the Carrigglas Manor estate in Co Longford, due to open next summer.

The course is being designed by Retief Goosen, the two-time US Open champion in partnership with Mount Juliet architect Jeff Howes.

The PGA has given the course its imprimatur, not least because it will have a number of exceptional features, including Ireland's first sub-aerated greens as well as creeks and lakes. The course will be centred on the manor house which dates from 1837 and is being turned into a five-star hotel with all the trimmings which is set to open in December when a number of holiday homes on the estate will also be complete.