Royal County Down Golf Club has lodged a formal planning application with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to modernise its championship facility.
While the quality of the playing surface is a key requirement for hosting The Open, it represents only one component of the necessary criteria.
The Royal and Ancient Golf Club, which organises the tournament, must also verify that the site possesses adequate infrastructure to accommodate tens of thousands of spectators safely.
Work on the proposed scheme is expected to commence during the 2027 off-season, pending successful resolution of the planning process.
A specific section of the submission addresses potential economic impacts arising from the development.
The project has already undergone public consultation as part of its preparation for committee review.
Approval by the planning committee remains the immediate next step before any construction can begin.