Coul Links lies just to the north of Dornoch on the east coast of Sutherland in Scotland. It is an area of dynamic coastal sand dunes, with internationally important wetland features, bordered to the east by Embo beach and the North Sea and to the north by the mouth of Loch Fleet. Immediately to the west lies improved farmland and to the south the village of Embo. The centre of the links is positioned at approximately 57.9°N, 4°W, grid ref. NH814939. The land forms part of Coul Farm. It is proposed that a golf course will be built on Coul Links. The Highland Council Impact Assessment form accompanying the initial planning submission states that "The proposed development has the potential to affect nature conservation interests on and around the site that are designated as being of international and national importance (Ramsar, Special Protection Area and Site of Special Scientific Interest). In addition, there are recorded archaeological remains and the archaeological potential of the site is high". The site is a hive of biodiversity, home to over 1,400 species.
Drone's-eye fly-overs of the southern section of Coul Links with views towards the northern section that show the dune slacks in their Winter flooded condition can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13nh1l5LTCk and dry in early September at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-hjFAyc_IE
After The Highland Council approved the planning application for a golf course at Coul Links, against the advice of its planning officer and of SNH (now NatureScot), the case was called in by Scottish ministers. A Public Inquiry was held in February/March 2019.
ttps://www.dpea.scotland.gov.uk/CaseDetails.aspx?id=119883
The inquiry reported to ministers in November 2019. On 21 February 2020 a decision was announced, “The Scottish Government has considered the reporter’s findings carefully and agree with the recommendation that planning permission should be refused.” “The likely detriment to natural heritage is not outweighed by the socio-economic benefits of the proposal.”
The Scottish ministers' reasoning suggests that a golf course routing at Coul Farm more sympathetic to the ecosystems of the dunes and respectful of their protection classifications could have met with little objection.
June 2022 saw a very similar scheme to the original entering the planning process. That application was validated in February 2023. The groundhog is not one of the species that make Coul Links worthy of environmental protection. At considerable time and taxpayer expense, a Public Inquiry confirmed that Coul Links is a site of national importance. The revived golf course proposal is being justified on the grounds of local (East Sutherland) economic benefit. That benefit would to a significant extent be gained at the expense of other golf tourism destinations within Scotland.
Details of the current planning application can be found at http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/ reference 23/00580/FUL.
coullinksgolf.com
This website aims to collect and provide links to items appearing on the internet that concern Coul Links and the proposal to site a golf course on that dune land. There is little editorial input beyond the brief description above and now extensive timeline below (and in the news archive) and our efficiency, or otherwise, in locating and correctly labelling relevant links. (A number of the links provided have become obsolete as interested parties have become inactive in the months/years since Scottish Ministers refused planning permission for the first proposed golf course at Coul Links.)
We hope that this website can serve to help people make an informed decision on support for or opposition to a golf course on Coul Links. The golf course plan has, regrettably but understandably, created deep divisions in local opinion with a quantity of questionable rhetoric reported in the local press, ("Cars and cats kill more birds than golfers." councillor McGillivray, The Press & Journal 13th November 2017). During the progress of the first planning application, the planning submission, consultee responses and public comment on The Highland Council planning website very possibly constituted a more reliable source of facts than did the media coverage listed in the lower part of this page. Along with media links, at the foot of this page we will seek to include any information that we can source, be it press releases or data, published by the developers or their agents.
When older news updates (now in the news archive page) sometimes read as being critical, it was no more than simple frustration with the demise of communication with the public from the original would-be developers and their failure to submit documents within the deadlines set by the Public Inquiry. We also admit to a growing frustration with the re-emergence of the discredited first proposal dressed up as fresh thinking.
coullinksgolf.com had intended to remain active to report on outcomes for Coul Links such as a management agreement and prospects for the recovery of the Northern Brown Argus butterfly presence after the fire of late March 2020. It will now remain active to monitor the progress of the second golf course planning proposal.
For links to media coverage of the Coul Links saga, scroll to lower on this page.
NEWS FLASH - 17 May 2023 - The Highland Council Planning website has published the Consultation Response from The Highland Council Ecology Officer (dated 16 May). "We object to the proposed development due to insufficient current ecological information to allow a robust assessment of the ecological resources of the site and associated impacts." And: "We also object to the proposal as it is contrary to National Planning Framework 4 Policy 3b that states 'Development proposals for national or major development, or for development that requires an Environmental Impact assessment will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that the proposal will conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity, including nature networks so they are in a demonstrably better state than without intervention'".
NEWS FLASH - 12 May 2023 - The week finishes with 1,045 public comments published on the Highland Council Planning website - 726 objections, 311 support comments. 70% against the current golf course plan, 30% in favour.
NEWS FLASH - 10 May 2023 - The previous admirable positivity of the Communities4Coul Facebook messaging seems to have lost discipline as their story has lurched to a focus on the objectors. As they loudly announce, objectors NotCoul have distributed a news-sheet to homes in Dornoch, Embo, Brora and Golspie. And, unhelpfully for the golf project, as the C4C tone becomes more confrontational, the first planning application's more toxic and discredited support has resurfaced.
NEWS FLASH - 5 May 2023 - NatureScot comment published on Highland Council planning website. "We therefore object to this proposal as it will result in unavoidable adverse effects on natural heritage interests of national importance." "If the planning authority intends to grant planning permission against this advice, you must notify Scottish Ministers."
So the Highland councillors on the North Planning Applications Committee will have to decide whether they yet again burden taxpayers with the expense of kicking this can down the road to Scottish Ministers.
NEWS FLASH - 4 May 2023 - Of 986 public comments so far published on the Highland Council Planning website, 669 (67.8%) are objections. In a Northern Times article of 1 May, Communities for Coul prefer to zoom in on the local area, claiming that 129 support comments have been submitted by people from Dornoch Firth communities - "The figures clearly show a genuine enthusiasm locally for our plans". This "genuine enthusiasm" represents a retreat from the always incredible claims of "unequivocal support" claimed in the communities4coul.scot website. 129 supporters make up less than 2% of voters in Dornoch Firth communities - not a great return on the Communities for Coul spend on door drops to every address, press ads and online encouragement all instructing local people on how to submit their support.
NEWS FLASH - 4 May 2023 - At a presentation to a public meeting organised by Dornoch Community Council, Community for Coul's environmental consultant Dr McMullen suggested that the combined expertise of RSPB Scotland, The National Trust for Scotland, The Scottish Wildlife Trust, Plantlife, Buglife, The Marine Conservation Society and Butterfly Conservation might be of less value to an assessment of Coul Links than his personal expertise. Surprisingly, at the Public Local Inquiry into the first Coul Links golf course proposal, Dr McMullen failed to present a sufficiently persuasive case for the environmental benefits of a golf course cut through a SSSI.
NEWS FLASH - 20 April 2023 - Would-be Coul Links golf developer Mike Keiser's plans for ownership of a Highland Coast golf destination gradually emerge into the daylight. In a support comment submitted to Highland Council Planning published today, the owner of Pitcalzean Farm, Nigg, a site subject to a planning application for a golf course in 2021, reveals that Mr Keiser was the developer behind that application. The likelihood of Mr Keiser's invovement was flagged-up in our news story of 25 April 2021 (see News Archive). The Nigg application was sadly stymied by zoning problems - the site would have hosted a dramatically good golf course.
With the acquisition of Castle Stuart, the rebranding as Cabot Highlands and the addition of a second course, Mr Keiser has the first piece of his golf destination in place. Proximity to Royal Dornoch, a legendary influence in Keiser folk-lore, provides the credibility and tradition for the marketing. More pieces are needed to provide critical mass - with Nigg having disappointed, a Coore & Crenshaw course at Coul Links starts to look like a necessity.
The question is then, "Where next?". The pitch to the existing, long-established, local golf clubs is that Coul Links will bring enhanced visitor revenue for neighbouring clubs. It is very easy to see quite the opposite happening. Visiting golfers drawn by Royal Dornoch play their second round, or second day's golf, at Coul Links rather than at Brora or Tain. With much reduced visitor revenue, those existing clubs become non-viable. Some high quality, historically interesting golf real estate becomes available at a knock-down price and Mr Keiser has control of his golf destination.
And Keiser destinations are funded by accommodation - local providers are left to pick up the crumbs. As the Cabot Highlands General Manager said, "you're coming back, eating our food, sleeping in our beds, and drinking our wine. It's masterful".
NEWS FLASH - 15 April 2023 - The Highland Council planning website now gives a new Standard Consultation Expiry Date of 12 May (moved from 9 April) which suggests that there is more time for the public to send comments of support or objection. The Highland Council Ecology Team has been added to the list of consultees.
NEWS FLASH - 30 March 2023 - After engaging with the developer prior to the Coul Links golf course planning application, a 'Conservation Coalition' of seven environmental organisations - Buglife, Butterfly Conservation, Plantlife, Marine Conservation Society, The National Trust for Scotland, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Wildlife Trust - has re-entered the debate, calling for the public's help again to save Coul Links. https://www.buglife.org.uk/news/conservation-coalition-calls-for-publics-help-again-to-save-coul-links/ https://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/scotland/posts/save-coul-links-why-we-will-be-objecting-again
Meanwhile, planning applicant Communities for Coul has distributed a 4 page printed brochure, "Coul Times" to local addresses calling for support comments to The Highland Council. https://www.communities4coul.scot/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Copy-of-Digital-or-Traditional-Tabloid-Template-%E2%80%93-289mm-x-380mm.pdf
NEWS FLASH - 20 March 2023 - Quoted in an article in Links Magazine, Cabot Highlands (was Castle Stuart) General Manager Stuart McColm said "If you're staying with us for the week, a five-night stay, you're going to play the two courses at least once. You're also going to play Nairn, Dornoch, Fortrose, Brora, and others potentially. We want to take control of all of that. You stay with us and, and if you want to go for a tee time at Dornoch, we'll take you and pick you up. Because you're coming back, eating our food, sleeping in our beds, and drinking our wine. It's masterful". Cabot is associated with prospective Coul Links developer Mike Keiser.
NEWS FLASH - 17 March 2023 - Very contrasting public comments listed today in the Highland Council planning portal. The certainty of an "era of some prosperity" from Councillor McGillivray https://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=neighbourComments&keyVal=RPM8MCIHGB800 and a more forensic assessment from Peter Batten and Denise Lloyd https://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/files/8A5AE85983B4AEE3C89F54ECB533AEE5/pdf/23_00580_FUL-Peter_Batten___Denise_Lloyd-2975655.pdf
NEWS FLASH - 17 March 2023 - A number of local and national media outlets have picked up the story of renewed opposition from Ramblers Scotland to the Coul Links golf plan. The organisation has a petition live at www.ramblers.org.uk/coullinks
NEWS FLASH - 10 March 2023 - The Highland Council has placed a notice in The Northern Times announcing the planning application for a golf course at Coul Links. Comments supporting or opposed to the golf course have to be submitted within 28 days of the publication date. Representations can be made online at http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/ (application reference 23/00580/FUL) or by writing to The Head of Planning and Building Standards, ePlanning Centre, The Highland Council, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX. (See notice in Documents section below.)
NEWS FLASH - 1 March 2023 - A planning application for a golf course and accompanying infrastructure at Coul Links was validated by The Highland Council on 28 February. Details and all documents submitted to date are available at https://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/ with the reference 23/00580/FUL.
NEWS FLASH - 22 February 2023 - The Highland Council has granted planning consent for the first phase of a hotel at Coul Links. See https://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=QTTOG0IHIR700&activeTab=summary
The Northern Times reports that "Edward Abel Smith, who owns the site and heads Coul Enterprises, the company behind the ambitious luxury eco hotel initiative, has said the project is entirely reliant on planning permission being granted for the golf course". (The planning application was made by agents on behalf of Mr Abel Smith who is not listed with Companies House as a director of Coul Enterprises Limited.) The applicant has declared that hotel and golf course are linked applications. So, with the golf course application yet to be validated, it seems strange that the hotel application has been granted so soon.
NEWS FLASH - 9 February 2023 - Via a Northern Times article published at 11.27, Communities for Coul announces submission to The Highland Coucil of a planning application for a golf course at Coul Links. A C4C post at 13.32 confirms the submission. The text published by The Northern Times is reproduced in other media outlets (see links below). It is suggested that mowing the vegetation/habitats within a Site of Special Scientific Interest down to 15-25mm does not constitute development and is somehow beneficial to the natural environment. Good news for SSSIs everywhere.
The planning application lands as The Scottish Government is due, next week, to adopt National Planning Framework 4. NPF4 is intended to answer questions such as, "how can planning best support our quality of life, health and wellbeing in the future? (by building golf courses for wealthy American tourists) and "what policies are needed to improve, protect and strengthen the special character of our places? (golf courses to be built on Special Protection Areas, Ramsar sites and Sites of Special Scientific Interest).
Rather confusingly the Communities for Coul "Planning Latest" web page reports that the "formal Planning Application" was submitted on 3rd September. Two paragraphs later it states that "we were free to submit our formal application" only after a consultation period that ended on 11th September.
Coul Links golf course current proposal
Also see News Archive. The company fronting the proposal has an online presence at https://www.communities4coul.scot and https://www.facebook.com/Communities4Coul/ For an alternative reading visit https://notcoul.org and https://www.facebook.com/groups/266150027087512/?mibextid=HsNCOg
After a local councillor made a shambolic attempt to resurrect the original golf course scheme, with added par 3 course, in Autumn 2020, a more concerted effort to relaunch the project surfaced in January 2021 with the publication of https://www.communities4coul.scot. Communities for Coul, a private limited company registered in Scotland, suggests that Brexit and Covid have changed the economic climate to such an extent that the benefits will outweigh any environmental concerns and further that the new golf course proposal “is now an environmental project with a golf course at its heart".
A week later the owner of Coul Farm announced his intention to build a hotel overlooking the links – construction to be started when the golf course receives planning approval.
In April 2021, Communities for Coul announced that Mike Keiser, the developer behind the original golf course plan, had been “selected” to build the revived golf course, funding the project should planning consent be granted.
Communities for Coul proceeded to stage a postal ballot and series of tightly managed online question and answer sessions to establish a narrative of consultation and public support. Meanwhile The Scottish Government’s Dynamic Coast project mapped areas of coastal flooding where the golf course is to be routed and forecast that the dune edge would retreat inland by up to 93 metres this century. Meanwhile Foveran Links in Aberdeenshire, home to Trump International Scotland golf course, of which Donald Trump said “this will be environmentally better after it is built than it is before”, lost its Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) status due to irreparable damage - extravagant promises of local jobs have never materialised. Parallels will inevitably be drawn.
Having declared that the original layout was the only one available at Coul Farm for a “world-class” golf course, Coore and Crenshaw have made modifications to their routing to make small concessions to specific environmental concerns and adopted the mowing of existing vegetation to create fairways.
A scoping application was submitted to The Highland Council in March 2022 with the aim to “file a planning application in 2022 and start work on the project in 2023”. Communities for Coul appealed for £150,000 of crowdfunding to meet the costs of expert support (a target reportedly reached on 26 September 2022). A Proposal of Planning Application Notice (PAN) was submitted on 19 June 2022.
Also in June, Cabot, a company associated with Mike Keiser, acquired Castle Stuart golf course near Inverness, renaming it Cabot Highlands and announcing plans for a second course and accommodation on site. Communities for Coul published the opinion that its chosen developer’s plans for Cabot Highlands would have “a significant negative economic impact on the towns and villages of the Dornoch Firth” so Coul Links, from the same developer, was needed as a counterbalance to prevent “very bad news”.
The aim to submit a planning application for Coul Links in 2022 was not met. However, with Cabot Highlands, Mike Keiser has put the first piece in place for a new Highland golf coast destination - as the Cabot Highlands' website https://cabothighlands.com depicts it, "Cabot's first UK property in its diverse collection of world-class golf and master-planned communities". Communities for Coul, a limited company perhaps misleadingly referred to in press coverage as a "community group', announced on 9 February 2023 that a planning application for Coul Links has been submitted. The deadline for public comments on the application is 12 May 2023.
There are two online petitions to "Save Coul Links". One is still live from the first planning application and currently has attracted more than 93,400 signatures https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/conserve-coul-links-for-nature-not-golf-1 The second is specific to the new planning application and has already gained more than 24,000 signatures towards its 25,000 target https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/save-coul-links-protected-nature-from-destructive-deja-vu-golf-course-1
Planning applications to The Highland Council
Reference: 23/00580/FUL
Application received: 5 February 2023
Proposal: Construction of an 18 hole golf course, practice area, access, parking, ancillary intrastructure and the change of use of existing buildings to form clubhouse, pro shop, maintenance shed and ancillary facilities
https://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/simpleSearchResults.do?action=firstPage
Reference: 17/04601/FUL
Application received: 29 September 2017
Proposal: Development of 18 hole golf course, erection of clubhouse, renovation of existing buildings for maintenance facility, pro-shop, caddy hut, workshop, administration building, information booth, formation of new private access from C1026
http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=OX1OGYIHH0I00
Reference: 17/04404/FUL
Application received: 20 September 2017
Proposal: Drilling of two boreholes and construction of water storage reservoir (maximum capacity 20000cu.m) for irrigation of (future) golf course
http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=OWKTCLIHG4S00
Documents
Background literature
Site Management Statement
Coul Links / Loch Fleet species data
The Management Plan for Loch Fleet NNR - Scottish Natural Heritage
http://www.snh.gov.uk/docs/A1622682.pdf
Sand Dune Vegetation Survey Of Scotland: Moray Firth
www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/research/181_3.pdf
Flora Of East Sutherland - BSBI (pages 37, 39)
bsbi.org.uk/vc107_flora_2013.pdf
Survey & Assessment of Lowland Heathland Lichen Habitats (pages 14, 16, 44)
Scottish Wildlife Trust
Coul Links golf development
http://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/what-we-do/policy-and-campaigns/coul-links/
LINKS
Our aim is to include links to any web coverage of Coul Links. We apologise for the fact that there will inevitably be ommissions that evade our searches. When multiple outlets reproduce a press release almost verbatim, only the link to the first published is included. It is probable that some older links are no longer viable.
19 May 2023
The Northern Times
Coul Links landowner promises 'crossing' over Loch Fleet if golf course gets go-ahead
18 May 2023
The
Northern Times
Dornoch Area Community Council votes 4:2 to support Coul Links
17 May 2023
BBC News
Nature agency's concerns over new Coul Links golf course
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islans-65621229
17 May 2023
The Insider
NatureScot objects to plans for golf course at Coul Links
https://www.insider.co.uk/news/naturescot-objects-plans-for-golf-course-29999116
17 May 2023
The Herald
Coul Links: Golf course plans suffer NatureScot blow
17 May 2023
The National
NatureScot object to plans for Coul links golf course
https://www.thenational.scot/news/uk-news/23529140.naturescot-object-plans-coul-links-golf-course/
17 May 2023
The Times
Naturalists object to billionaire's Coul Links golf course plan
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/naturalists-object-to-billioaire-s-golf-course-plan-gj8w8dkcq
17 May 2023
Horticulture Week
NatureScot objects to plans for a luxury golf course at Coul Links
17 May 2023
Third Force News
Coalition rounds on developer as its plans will damage site of national importance
17 May 2023
Buglife
NatureScot objects to plans for a luxury golf course at Coul Links
https://www.buglife.org.uk/news/naturescot-objects-to-plans-for-a-luxury-golf-course-at-coul-links/
12 May 2023
The Northern Times
NatureScot's objection to Coul Links welcomed by Green MSP Ariane Burgess
12 May
2023
The Northern Times
Green
light for Coul Links would be 'life-enhancing' for East Sutherland, says Runrig star Rory MacDonald
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/green-light-for-coul-links-would-be-life-enhancing-for-eas-313490
9 May 2023
The Northern Times
'We are unable to support this proposal': NatureScot deals blow to Coul Links plan
4 May
2023
The Press & Journal
Coul Links golf plan could help stop drain of young people from Sutherland
1 May 2023
The Northern Times
Coul Links developers claim opposition to golf course plan is being whipped up by national organisations as hundreds of objections made to Highland Council
26
April 2023
The Press & Journal
Coul
Links: Objectors outnumber supporters 2 to 1 - but should the powers that be just concentrate on what locals think?
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands-islands/5658376/coul-links-objectors-support-local-golf-plan-c4c/
20 April 2023
The Press & Journal
Would-be golf course developer backs Coul Links plan
16 April 2023
The Ferret (also The National)
Coul Links developer donated to climate denial group
https://theferret.scot/coul-links-developer-donated-climate-denial-group/
7 April 2023
The Northern Times
Coul Links golf course development in spotlight as public consultation period nears end
7 April 2023
The Northern Times
Coul Links debate - AGAINST: 'Harm to landscape and access to vital dunes'
7 April 2023
The Northern Times
Coul Links debate - FOR: 'Course will help to protect environment'
7 April 2023
Environment Journal
Irreplaceable Coul Links area threatened by golf course
https://environmentjournal.online/articles/irreplaceable-coul-links-threatened-by-golf-course/
6 April 2023
The Northern Times
Coul Links promotional video criticised for use of stock imagery
3 April 2023
Butterfly Conservation
The threat to Coul Links is back
https://butterfly-conservation.org/news-and-blog/the-threat-to-coul-links-is-back
31 March 2023
The Press & Journal
Coul Links: Environmentalists issue new appeal to public to stop golf course plans
30 March 2023
RSPB
Save Coul Links - here's why we will be objecting (again) and what you can do to help
30 March 2023
Scottish Wildlife Trust
Conservation Coalition calls for public's help again to save Coul Links
30 March 2023
Scottish Field
Conservationists object to Coul Links golf course
https://www.scottishfield.co.uk/news/conservationists-object-to-coul-links-golf-course/
29 March 2023
The Highland Times
Green MSP Raises Concerns Over Video Fakery in Coul Links Campaign
https://thehighlandtimes.com/green-msp-raises-concerns-over-video-fakery-in-coul-links-campaign
29 March 2023
The Scotsman
Video featuring 'fake' locals branded 'embarrassing' in US billionaire's bid to build championship golf course on scenic Scottish Highland dunes
24 March 2023
The Northern Times
Dornoch Community Council to hold special 'fact finding' meeting before deciding its stance on Coul Links
20 March 2023
Links Magazine
Could the Scottish Highlands become a golf destination on par with St. Andrews?
https://linksmagazine.com/could-the-scottish-highlands-become-a-golf-destination-on-par-with-st-andrews?utm_campaign=insider3.20.23&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=251498948&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--iH-Cys_ZxcRLwPxZ-rrXw7psp-0tggTpNB4cx_g6pBABIGgeT0-_-8dYaegXk05vAp0BUugJVxqlv38dXonOcNkmSmw%utm_source=newsletter
17 March 2023
Sky News
Walking group fighting fresh plans for Coul Links golf course in the Highlands 'that will cross John o'Groats Trail'
17 March 2023
The National
Group behind Coul Links golf course proposal defend plans
17 March 2023
The Northern Times
'Deeply concerning': Green MSP Ariane Burgess speaks out against renewed Coul Links plan
17 March 2023
BBC News
Walking group opposes fresh plans for Coul Links golf course
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-64979971
16 March 2023
Scottish Daily Express
Fears over iconic Scottish sand dunes as developer plots new 18-hole golf course
https://www.scottishdailyexpress.co.uk/news/scottish-news/fears-over-iconic-scottish-sand-29477612
16 March 2023
The Highland Times
Green MSP condemns return of Coul Links threat
https://thehighlandtimes.com/green-msp-condemns-return-of-coul-links-threat/
16 March 2023
John O'Groat Journal
Ramblers Scotland gear up for fresh fight against Coul Links golf course plan with launch of petition
Also The Northern Times
16 March 2023
The National
Ramblers Scotland voices opposition to revived Coul Links development
16 March 2023
Walkhighlands
Walkers fight to once again save Highland dunes
https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/news/walkers-fight-to-once-again-save-highland-dunes/
7 March 2023
The Press & Journal - Planning Ahead Highland
Major plans unveiled for Coul Links golf course
24 February 2023
The Press and Journal
First impression of planned £20m eco-hotel for Coul Links golf resort
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands-islands/5434822/coul-links-golf-eco-hotel/
24 February 2023
Golf Business News
Planning consent given for Coul Links hotel
https://golfbusinessnews.com/news/courses/planning-consent-given-for-coul-links-hotel/
23 February 2023
Bunkered
Boost for Coul Links as hotel permission granted
https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/boost-for-coul-links-as-hotel-permission-granted
22 February 2023
The Northern Times
Planning consent granted for first phase of £20 million Coul links eco-hotel
10 February 2023
Beyond the Contour
Mike Keiser, Coore & Crenshaw's Coul Links Planning Application Resubmitted
9 February 2023
Golf Course Architecture
Community group sublits new planning application for Coul Links
9 February 2023
The Northern Times
Major milestone reached as community group lodges fresh planning application for championship golf course at Coul Links
2 February 2023
Chronicle Herald
Opinion - Raymond Plourde: Pop Cabot's trial balloon now
2 February 2023
The Herald
North Coast 500: Staffing shortages threaten Scotland's tourist route
4 November
2022
The National
Plans for Sutherland golf course backed as 'essential' for local economy
3 November 2022
The Northern Times
New owners of Dornoch
Hotel get behind bid for championship golf course at Coul Links and donate £10k to community group pushing plan forward
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/new-owners-of-dornoch-hotel-get-behind-bid-for-championship-292311/
3 November 2022
Ross-Shire
Journal
Easter Ross town of Tain could tee up spin off from new world-class Coul Links golf course at Dornoch, claim owners of luxury hotel
https://www.ross-shirejournal.co.uk/news/easter-ross-town-could-benefit-from-new-golf-course-claim-292421/
3 November 2022
Golf Business News
Dornoch Hotel owners back plans to build new course at Coul Links
24 October 2022
The Northern Times
17 July 2022
surfbirds.com
Internationally protected Coul Links once again under threat from golf course
15 July 2022
ENDS Report
Golf course plans could see decline of second rare dune habitat, warn NGOs
12 July 2022
The Herald
In the shadow of Trump. Coul Links golf course controversy
https://www.heraldscotland.com/opinion/20272522.shadow-trump-coul-links-golf-course-controversy/
12 July 2022
birdguides.com
Coul Links once again under threat from golf course
https://www.birdguides.com/news/coul-links-once-again-under-threat-from-golf-course/
9 July 2022
The Northern Times
Environmental coalition voices concern over renewed Coul Links golf course plan
8 July 2022
The National
Coul Links golf course: Concerns raised over plans to build on Sutherland dunes
8 July 2022
The Press and Journal
The Coul Links saga continues: Application for world class course could be in by autumn
8 July 2022
The Times
Charities united against golf course on wildlife site
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/charities-united-against-golf-course-on-wildlife-site-w8t7p08x5
8 July 2022
The Herald
Coul Links: New golf course plans raise concerns
https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/20265305.coul-links-new-golf-course-plans-raise-concerns/
8 July 2022
STV News
Internationally protected site 'under threat' from 18-hole golf course
8 July 2022
BBC News
Coul Links: Environmental groups voice concern at golf course plans
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-62065217
8 July 2022
RSPB (press release)
Internationally protected Coul Links once again under threat from golf course
https://www.rspb.org.uk/about-the-rspb/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/coullinks2022/
27 June 2022
The Press and Journal
A 'perfect fit': Canadian golf course resort operator acquires Castle Stuart with plans for second course and luxury homes
24 June 2022
The Northern Times
Public exhibition to be held in Embo next month on Coul Links golf course plan
8 June 2022
Sports Illustrated
Coul Links Prospects Heating Up Again
https://www.si.com/golf/travel/a-new-duel-in-the-desert-at-mexicos-cabo-del-sol
2 May 2022
Bunkered
Conservation groups hit back at plans for "world-class" links
https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/conservation-groups-hit-back-at-plans-for-world-class-links
4 April 2022
STV News
Plans resurface for golf course developemnt on protected site
https://news.stv.tv/v/plans-resurface-for-golf-course-development-in-sutherland-on-protected-site
31 March 2022
Bunkered
Crowd-funding campaign launched for new Scottish course
https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/crowd-funding-campaign-launched-for-new-scottish-course
25 March 2022
Golf Business News
Coul Links developers submit more 'environmentally sensitive' plan
25 March 2022
BBC News
Group says golf project would protect dune habitat
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cv2xx77xx4zo
25 March 2022
Golf Course Architecture
Coul Links project resurfaces with submission of scoping application
25 March 2022
The Northern Times
Communities for Coul reach major milestone with submission of 'scoping application' to Highland Council for championship golf course at Coul Links
25 November 2022
The Press and Journal
Fresh Coul Links plan promises to be 'environmentally sensitive' as major golf course project moves a step closer
25 November 2021
The Northern Times
Sutherland beaches at risk of being lost within 30 years due to coastal erosion
22 October 2021
The Northern Times
'Coul' response to council
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/coul-response-to-council-254760/
15 October 2021
Business Insider
Satellite photos show how Trump wrecked a sensitive sand dune system in Scotland to build a luxury golf course
15 October 2021
The Northern Times
Cool response to request for Coul Links support letter
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/cool-response-to-request-for-coul-links-support-letter-253968/
16 June 2021
The Press and Journal
New bid for controversial luxury 18-hole golf course in Highlands given boost after public vote
16 June 2021
The Northern Times
Local poll result shows majority backing for golf course at Coul Links
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/public-vote-backs-golf-course-plan-241718/
6 June 2021
The Press and Journal
First look at what a proposed £20m eco hotel in the Highlands could look like
4 June 2021
The Northern Times
Coul Entreprises lodges planning application for first phase of its £20m eco hotel development in Sutherland
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/20m-eco-hotel-plans-lodged-with-council-240048/28
May 2021
Transition Black Isle
Coul Links - Mike Keiser back in the picture
https://www.transitionblackisle.org/coul-links.asp
28 May 2021
The Northern Times
East Sutherland communities to be canvassed to gauge level of local support for renewed Coul Links golf course plan
17 May 2021
The Northern Times
C4C to hold 'Town Hall' meetings to update East Sutherland communities on Coul Links golf plan
29 April 2021
Bunkered
Coul Links announces return of Mike Keiser to proposed development
29 April 2021
The Northern Times
'Major milestone' as Communities For Coul tee up golf course architect Mke Keiser
24 April 2021
The Northern Times
Loch Fleet crossing a 'fantastic idea'
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/loch-fleet-crossing-a-great-idea-235931/
19 April 2021
ecohustler.com
More golf courses in Scotland too coarse for the environment
https://ecohustler.com/nature/more-golf-courses-in-scotland-too-coarse-for-the-environment
31 March 2021
Planet Golf
Farmer reveals plan to rebuild lost Scottish links at Castlecraig
https://www.planetgolf.com/news/farmer-reveals-plan-to-rebuild-lost-scottish-links-at-castle-craig
28 March 2021
The Northern Times
Coul Links Hotel developer launches 'Coul Collective' and calls for local businesses to become involved
27 March 2021
Ross-Shire Jounal (also 28 March 2021 The Northern Times)
'Worls class' Easter Ross golf course vision has history behind it as Nigg farmer reveals plans for major development which would tee up boost for local economy
27 March 2021
Bunkered
Highlands farmer hopes to build new 'world class' Scottish course
https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/highlands-farmer-hopes-to-build-new-world-class-scottish-course
25 March 2021
The Northern Times
Coul Links an election issue
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/coul-links-an-election-issue-232735/
25 March 2021
The Press & Journal
Farmer unveils plans for world class golf course on site at Nigg
https://www.pressand journal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/2999584/golf-course/
21 March 2021
The Scotsman
Coul Links: Leading economist says new Scottish government guidance could pave way for golf course approval as pandemic highlights need for 'crucial' investment
21 March 2021
The Guardian
Renewed Highland golf course plan has environmentalists crying 'Fore!'
19 February 2021
The Northern Times
Dornoch hotelier plans four-star upgrade if renewed Coul Links golf course plan successful
18 February 2021
The Press & Journal
Clubs chip in support for move to revive Coul Links plan
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/2912014/coul-links/
17 February 2021
Brora Golf Club news
Brora support for new Coul Links plans
https://broragolfclub.co.uk/news/brora-support-for-new-coul-links-plans
10 February 2021
The Northern Times
Lease agreement reached over Coul Links
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/lease-agreement-reached-over-coul-links-227593/
9 February 2021
Bunkered
'Defeated' golf course plans to be resurrected
https://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/report-coul-links-plans-set-to-be-resurrected
5 February 2021
BBC Sounds - Good Morning Scotland
starting 1:16:50 in
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m000rwkg
5 February 2021
The Press & Journal
Highland community to lease site earmarked for revived golf course plan
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/2874139/coul-links-golf/
5 February 2021
BBC News
Coul Links: New plans for golf course in Sutherland
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-55932945
29 January 2021
The Northern Times
Investors prepared to back Coul Links Hotel
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/investors-will-back-coul-links-hotel-226276/
28 January 2021
The Press & Journal
Plans to build eco hotel if Highland golf course development is revived
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/2848609/eco-hotel/
26 January 2021
The Press & Journal
Controversial golf course plans could be back on as campaign group calls refusal 'grave disservice' to area
22 January 2021
The Northern Times
Community group formed to revive Coul Links golf plan
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/community-group-formed-to-revive-coul-links-golf-plan-225637/
13 December 2020
The National
Scotland 'let down' by Trump over £1 billion boost fail, ex-advisor says
9 December 2020
Scottish Construction Now
Sand dunes damaged by Trump's golf links at Menie stripped of conservation status
7 December 2020
The Courier
Number of planning decisions overturned by Scottish Government raises fears for local democracy
21 October 2020
Planetgolf
Approval for second Trump International golf course in Scotland
https://www.planetgolf.com/news/approval-for-second-trump-international-golf-course-in-scotland
20 October 2020
The Northern Times (also Ross-Shire Journal 21 October 2020)
Two-year obstacle to new Coul Links plan
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/two-year-obstacle-to-coul-links-plan-215720/
2 October 2020
The Northern Times
Golf course at Coul Links in the frame again
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/coul-links-course-in-the-frame-again-213744/
19 September 2020
Scottish Wildlife Trust
Coul Links decision should draw a line in the sand
https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/news/coul-links-decision-should-draw-a-line-in-the-sand/
14 September 2020
The Scotsman
Campaigners pledge to fight new plan for golf course at wildlife site
10 September 2020
Links Magazine
Dumbarnie and Coul Links: How two acclaimed links course proposals met vastly different fates
https://www.linksmagazine.com/dumbarnie-and-coul-links/
14 August 2020
community.rspb.org.uk
We need your votes! Save Coul Links campaign shortlisted for Scottish Charity Awards!
1 July 2020
The Planner
Planning reporters delivered an improved performance during 2019/20
https://www.theplanner.co.uk/news/planning-reporters-delivered-an-improved-performance-during-201920
29 June 2020
John O'Groat Journal and Caithness Courier
Focus must be on socio-economic benefit from spaceport, says Thurso councillor
17 May 2020
The Northern Times
As I see it: It is now over to Coul Links opponents to develop the area for eco-tourism
9 May 2020
The Herald
The walk: Littleferry - great for wildlife, but not for golf
https://www.heraldscotland.com/life_style/18433044.walk-littleferry---great-wildlife-not-golf/