Coul Links site must be saved from destructive golf development
Proposals for a controversial golf development at Coul Links would have a terrible impact on the local environment says Scottish Greens spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Ariane Burgess MSP.
Ms Burgess has joined locals in East Sutherland to raise her objections at a public hearing about the proposal.
Coul Links is one of the last areas of undeveloped, species-rich dune habitat in Scotland. It is a site of environmental and scientific significance, holding several important international environmental designations.
The building of this golf course would destroy wildlife and natural habitats, including a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and is not in line with new planning laws brought in last year that prioritise the environmental and biodiversity impact of decisions.
Ms Burgess said:
"I have raised serious concerns about the decision to grant planning permission for this development. It is critical to protect Coul Links and treasure its rich ecological value.
"The new National Planning Framework prioritises environmental and biodiversity concerns. These policies must be upheld to protect special areas from desecration through inappropriate and morally-bankrupt developments.
"Permission was granted without due diligence for the ecosystems that would be placed in jeopardy by the proposed golf development. Highland Councillors had the power to reject this application, similar to a previously rejected proposal, but chose not to.
"I have campaigned alongside local residents, with thousands of people joining the call to oppose these plans. The message is loud and clear: we do not want this golf course, and we want to protect our environment."
Earlier this year the Scottish Greens led a campaign to save Loch Lomond from a proposed Flamingo Land development, with over 156,000 people joining the cause. The development was rejected.
Ms Burgess added:
"Just like Loch Lomond, our outdoor spaces deserve to be protected and preserved. Coul Links sand dunes are very rare habitats, with a variety of vegetation and species dependent on them for their survival. This includes endangered birds on the Red List such as curlews and warblers.
"This area is already well served by high-quality golf courses and we must balance unbinding promises of investment and jobs with the urgent need to protect biodiversity and precious habitats already under pressure from climate change.
"Coul Links is an area enjoyed by wildlife and by people. We must not prioritise profits over public use of these beautiful spaces that are becoming few and far between in our country."