Durham course's future concerns golfers, neighbors

Hillandale Golf Course is owned by a foundation affiliated with SunTrust bank, and bank officials want to unload the course because it has been losing money in recent years. A contract that pays a Raleigh firm to manage the course adds to its money woes.

SunTrust has set an Oct. 31 closing date for the course unless a new owner can be found.

Durham officials are still discussing taking over the property, but other local golf course owners have panned that idea, saying they don't want to compete with a subsidized municipal course.

Hillandale's neighbors planned to meet Thursday night to discuss the 100-acre course's future and what it could mean for the area.

"I understand what the expense of running a golf course is, and I'm sure the city doesn't have the money to do it," neighbor Bob Burns said. "I don't know what's going to happen. I'd love to see it stay open."

Meanwhile, golfers are trying to squeeze in a final round.

"I haven't played here in years, and I just found out it's closing," golfer Mike Poock said. "This is really sad to see. Hillandale is somewhat of an icon around here."