Melvyn, thanks for your response, although I think you have misinterpreted what I said.
If you think that I believe a cart path, a clubhouse & a kitchen makes a good golf course then you don’t know me too well.
My point is that change happens, so it might as well be done carefully by someone who knows what they are doing. Even Killermont has been modernised twice, but I’m sure the changes were done carefully to keep the essence of what Old Tom designed.
I’ve played most of the links courses throughout Scotland, from big to small – famous to unknown, & they all have changed over the years. Some for the better & some not so. This is no difference to the changes Allan Robertson & Old Tom made to The Old Course. The changes I’m talking about with regards to Askernish I would expect to be small & of need, like the suggestion made about larger tee areas.
Of course, since being rediscovered the course has already changed from what Old Tom designed, so how much change is too much or not enough. I would hope that those involved with Askernish would have a mindset that understands change, even if it is to say no to certain changes, because when changes do happen, they want them to be the right ones. From what I’ve read, it sounds like they have a good mindset for the job at hand, having spoken to the right people like yourself & Tom Doak. I’m sure it will move along at the right pace & become the golf course it should be.
I look forward to playing it & spending some time in the area when I am next in Scotland.