From Landfill to Landmark: The Sustainable Transformation of Plover Cove
In this detailed report, Golf Course Architecture explores the remarkable evolution of Plover Cove, where Fry/Straka is transforming 50 hectares of the former Shuen Wan landfill into a premier golf destination. This project represents one of Hong Kong’s most ambitious environmental and engineering feats, reclaiming a site once used for industrial waste and reimagining it as a sustainable green space.
The article emphasizes the delicate balance required to build atop a restored landfill, blending technical precision with artistic routing. Featured renderings, such as the par-three twelfth hole playing toward Tolo Harbour, showcase how the design maximizes stunning coastal views and integrates the nearby Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve. By prioritizing environmental stewardship and innovative land use, Fry/Straka is not just building a golf course, but creating a vital ecological haven that breathes new life into the Hong Kong landscape.
The Art of Engineering: Sculpting a Golfing Masterpiece at Plover Cove
In the latest issue of Golf Course Architecture, the spotlight turns to the extraordinary engineering feat currently underway at Plover Cove in Hong Kong. Tasked with transforming a site defined by steep slopes and numerous constraints, the Fry/Straka team is proving that no landscape is too challenging for world-class golf.
The article, titled ‘Doing it Tough,’ highlights the sheer scale of the project, which requires moving massive amounts of earth to forge a playable, strategic layout on the site of a former landfill. Jason Straka notes that while the site presents immense technical hurdles—from drainage to stabilization—it also offers a rare canvas for dramatic shot-making and breathtaking vistas.
By balancing meticulous engineering and visionary golf with environmental sensitivity, Fry/Straka is turning one of the world’s most difficult sites into a landmark destination. Plover Cove stands as a testament to our firm’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of modern golf course design.
Ten golf course designs to look out for in 2026
As the golf calendar turns to 2026, there’s no shortage of projects capturing the imagination. From new layouts built on dramatic landscapes to restorations of historic venues, this year promises to be an interesting year in golf course design.
Fry/Straka landed one of the ten anticipated golf courses with its design for Plover Cove in Hong Kong.
Plover Cove takes shape in Hong Kong
The development of Plover Cove Golf Club in Hong Kong – which is due to open in 2027 – took a major step forward this month with the completion of a 1.5km retaining wall around the 53-hectare site in Shuen Wan.
The Plover Cove project is being developed in collaboration with Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design, agronomy and sustainability consultants Turfgrass, and Flagstick Golf Course Construction Management.
The landmark development will transform a restored landfill site into a 6,600-yard, par-71 championship course, complete with luxury clubhouse and other leisure facilities, at a projected cost of $4.5 billion HKD ($600m US).
Plover Cove Golf Club: Transforming Hong Kong’s Landscape
Plover Cove Golf Club (PCGC) is set to redefine the Shuen Wan landfill in Hong Kong’s New Territories. As the first full golf course on privately owned reclaimed land in the city, this visionary project will transform up to 53 hectares of restored landfill into a stunning Par 71 championship golf course. Spanning over 6,600 yards and featuring 18 holes, this ambitious development comes with a total investment of up to HK$4.5 billion (USD $578 million).