The most famous hazard in golf, the Road Hole Bunker, is rebuilt every two years as part of routine maintenance, and this year's work is receiving more attention than usual although the work is not yet complete.
The bunker has not been moved further away from the green as suggested in some reports - it is in exactly the same position as it has always been.
A significant change is improvements to the gathering effect of the area around the bunker. Restored contouring over a wider area will make the bunker more difficult to avoid, as it as before.
The height of the face is still being worked on and will be close to the level of the 2000 Open. The angle of the face remains vertical.
"It has become clear to us that it is not commonly known that this bunker, along with several others on the Old Course, is rebuilt every two years. When the work is complete the Road Hole will continue to be a great golfing challenge for all golfers including top professionals," said Alan McGregor, general manager.
The project was approved through the usual channels culminating in the Links Management Committee. It is being inspected regularly and work will continue according to the recommendations of the Greens Committee of the Links Trust. It will be completed before the start of the season.