Coul Links looking North towards Ben Bhraggie February 2016 (© copyright Ian Horsfield 2020, all rights reserved)
Coul Links (golf or not)
This website aims to collect and provide links to items appearing on the internet that concern Coul Links just to the north of Embo, Dornoch on the east coast of Sutherland in Scotland and the proposal to site a golf course on that dune land. There is no editorial input beyond the brief description and now extensive timeline below (and in the news archive) and our efficiency, or otherwise, in locating and correctly labelling relevant links. After The Highland Council approved the planning application for a golf course, 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 will report to ministers for their determination. If the news updates sometimes read as being critical it is no more than simple frustration with the demise of communication with the public from the would-be developers and their failure to submit documents within the deadlines set by the Public Inquiry. We hope that this website serves to help people make an informed decision on support for or opposition to a golf course on Coul Links.
NEWS
28 November 2019
The DPEA today sumbitted its report for the consideration of Scottish Ministers.
7 November 2019
The DPEA confirms that the reporters are close to completing their report and hope to be able to submit it to Ministers in the next few weeks.
5 October 2019
On 25 September the coalition of environmental organisations opposing the development wrote to the Reporters outlining concerns over the lengthy delay in the Applicant's closing submissions. This was met by an email dated 3 October from Moray Thomson for the Applicant rejecting any concerns or notion of unfairness and desribing the coalition letter as "actually a clear attempt to make representations on the terms of those submissions". Both the coalition's letter and the Applicant's email will be forwarded to Ministers along with the report. There is still no estimate of when that might be.
11 September 2019
Email correspondence with The Scottish Government DPEA reveals nothing conclusive on estimated timing for delivery of the report. The reporters "are currently working on the report but are, unfortunately, not in a position to be able to advise when it is likely to be ready for submission to Ministers".
20 August 2019
it is now more than three months since Mr Keiser stated in a No Laying Up podcast (10 May, episode 213, minutes 12.00 - 17.00) that "we are three, four, five months away from starting" to build a golf course at Coul Links. He also reported that The Highland Council "came to" Mr Warnock saying "we would love it if you built a very good golf course in the Highlands of Scotland". Whether The Highland Council envisaged the incursion into a SSSI of such environmental sensitivity is unknown. Whether Mr Keiser's confidence that the ministerial planning decision will go his way, and soon, is well founded remains to be seen. But as the months slip away, supporters of the Coul Links project may be joining opponents in wishing that Mr Coore had found the inspiration to route his legacy Scottish links course over less contentious ground.
6 August 2019
More than 15 weeks beyond the original deadline stipulated by the reporters, the applicant's closing submissions have been delivered. At paragraph 1.32 on page 22 (of 721), "It is acknowledged that the Applicant's closing submissions have taken longer to produce than anticipated at the closure of the Public Inquiry. Sincere apologies are tendered for the inconvenience that may have been caused to the Reporters as a consequence. As the other parties to the Inquiry have no right of reply then it is not considered that there has been any inconvenience caused to these parties and, in any event to the extent that the Objectors' representatives are complaining about the lateness of the submissions this has to be considered in the context that the misleading nature of the Objectors' closing submissions has been a very significant contributor". Whether the reporters care to be guided by directions as to what "has to be considered" remains to be seen.
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). The planning submission, consultee responses and public comment that can be found on The Highland Council planning website very possibly constitute a more reliable source of facts than does the media coverage listed in the lower part of this page.
Coul Links 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. 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, Special Area of Conservation and Site of Special Scientific Interest). In addition, there are recorded archaeological remains and the archaeological potential of the site is high".
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
A planning application reference 17/04601/FUL for "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" was lodged with The Highland Council on 29th September 2017 by Coul Links Ltd. The application has a determination deadline of 28th January 2018. Supporting documents can be viewed at http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=OX1OGYIHH0I00 The press release of 29th September heralding the application stated that "The golf course will be constructed in and outside the Loch Fleet Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which currently extends to 1,232 hectares. After significant layout revisions as a result of public comment, the golf course will incorporate a total footprint of 22.7 hectares. As a result of careful planning, the course will include only a 14.0 hectare footprint inside the SSSI (1.1% of the total SSSI area) and 8.7 hectares outside".
After addendum to their submission were lodged with The Highland Council during March and April 2018, the fact that the developers do not plan to file any further documents was signalled by planning notices published in The Northern Times and Edinburgh Gazette on the 27th of April. These notices stipulate a 28 day period, from date of publication, for public comment.
The applicant, Coul Links Limited, was incorporated on 28th July 2016 with the company number SC541313, the nature of the business being "Other letting and operating of own or leased real estate". beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/SC541313/filing-history The certificate of incorporation lists the directors as Todd Warnock and Michael Keiser, all shares being held by Coul Links Holding Company LLC with a Delaware address. Mike Keiser is a golf resort developer (http://theworldlink.com/news/south-coast-strong/entrepreneurial-philanthropy-giving-with-purpose/article_085629c2-f968-5ff0-a416-0d1f9e99e92a.html), Todd Warnock has local hotel interests. The applicant's agent is STRI (Richard Stuttard, St. Ives Estate, Bingley, England, BD16 1AU, tel: 07912 578967, Richard.stuttard@stri.co.uk). The initial planning application reference 16/00053/SCRE dated 22nd December 2015 was submitted by Mike Keiser's Bandon Dunes Golf Resort (see http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=O0SCXUIH0EW00). A September 2015 fortune.com article profiling Mike Keiser characterised his blueprint for the development of golf resorts at Bandon Dunes, Oregon and Cabot Links, Novia Scotia as "transform wooly, under-utilized land in a picturesque and remote location into a bucket list golf destination that revitalizes a woebegone community". (http://fortune.com/2015/09/26/donald-trump-golf-keiser/) The architects appointed to design the course are Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw http://www.cooreandcrenshaw.com
Mike Keiser, Bill Coore and Todd Warnock started a blog dedicated to the project in May 2016 at https://coullinks.wordpress.com This blog has been dormant since 23rd July 2016. On 28th November 2017 their original website for the project www.coullinks.com was finally replaced having been idle for many months. Their live replacement (with blog) can be found at https://www.coullinks.co.uk The developers have consistently been more active in their communication via the golf media and local press, placing news of the impending revised planning application along with sympathetic quotes from local politicians and business interests. 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.
The potential developers first publicised their outline plans for building a golf course on Coul Links in late October 2015. On 6th July 2016 Bandon Dunes Golf Resort announced it had submitted a proposal of application notice (PAN) to The Highland Council. The PAN is formal notification of intention to submit a planning application, in this case for the development of an 18 hole championship links golf course, practice area, access arrangements, club house and ancillary facilities. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort hosted public consultation events presenting preliminary information on the proposed development in Dornoch and Embo on 13th July 2016. The support material presented at those meetings can be viewed at https://coullinks.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/coul-pullup-panels-final.pdf At that point the developers indicated their intention to submit a detailed planning application in December 2016/January 2017. The Highland Council planning committee meeting to examine the application is scheduled for 5th June 2018.
A second round of public consultation events took place at Dornoch on 30th August and Embo on 31st August 2016. The support material from these meetings is again available at the link above. A third round of public consultation events took place on 22nd/23rd October 2017. The developers reported that across the two October events 88% of attendee surveys returned were in favour of the proposals. In an interview with GolfAdvisor.com's Morning Drive spot on 28th September 2017 Bill Coore reported that the planning application would be lodged "in the next few days" after "two years of scientific studies". GolfAdvisor reported Mr Coore as saying that he wouldn't ... "have gone this far if he didn't know every public body, politician and local citizen was solidly behind the project".
At 28th January 2020 the 38degrees petition opposing the golf course had attracted 91,772 signatures, that supporting the golf course had 606 signatures when it closed in early January 2018. The Care2 petition opposing the golf course had 2,036 signatures. Of the 2,318 public comments lodged with The Highland Council, those objecting to the golf course planning application outnumbered supportive comments by a ratio of more than 5 to 1. The 348 public comments supporting the development number considerably fewer than the local residents eligible to be members of Embo Trust which stands to have a minor part share in the project: far from an expression of the overwhelming local support boasted by the developers. Objections were submitted by Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA modified its objection in late March and SNH in late May after the developers augmented their submission); both bodies had made recommendations to the developers over the months prior to the application.
A group of local citizens has launched a site dedicated to stopping the development on the protected dune area at www.notcoul.com presenting detailed and researched arguments against the submitted golf course plan. The NotCoul group position is one of opposition to a golf course within the SSSI protected dune area, not opposition to a golf course at Coul Farm. A pamphlet distributed locally by NotCoul prior to the second round of public events can be found at the foot of this page. The highly detailed NotCoul objection submitted to The Highland Council can be found at http://www.notcoul.com/objections.html. The developers have sought to discredit NotCoul and its Chair, dedicating a prominent page of their website to finding fault in the NotCoul comment document https://www.coullinks.co.uk/not-coul-not-correct. NotCoul has, in turn, published a forensic riposte at http://notcoul.com/rebuttals.html.
The Coul Links press release of 29th September 2017 states that "Importantly, the developers believe the Coul Links site will be environmentally enhanced, not degraded, as a result of the project" and that it will result in "significant economic benefit to the East Sutherland and national Scottish economy". (See press release below.) With parallels having been drawn, unfairly or otherwise, between Coul Links and Trump International Golf Links, the chronic drip of negative news coverage concerning the modification of environmental commitments and scope of development at the Aberdeenshire golf resort cannot be helpful to golf proposals at Coul Links. Mr Warnock, via blog and press, has sought to deflect any narrative of similarity to the Trump development with the claim that opposition to his proposals is fuelled by anti-American sentiment.
Online petitions for and against the Coul Links golf course can be found at:
Petition l Support for Coul Links golf course (no longer live as of January 2018)
Petition l Save protected nature at Loch Fleet from golf development vandalism
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/conserve-coul-links-for-nature-not-golf-1
Petition l Tell Highland Council to refuse permission for a golf course on Coul Links, Embo
Petition l Save Fonseca's seed fly
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/save-fonesca-s-seed-fly
On 11th May 2017 representatives of a partnership of wildlife organisations hosted an event in Dornoch that examined the ecological implications of a golf course on Coul Links. The free event saw experts from RSPB Scotland, Butterfly Conservation Scotland and Buglife giving their organisations' perspectives on the irreparable damage to habitat and species that a golf course on the site would cause. Some dissent was voiced from the floor with the view expressed that the expertise of the specialists representing wildlife organisations was less credible than that of some of the local residents supporting the project. Todd Warnock attended the event in a private capacity.
Some of these issues are discussed in Dr Tom Dargie's letter to The Northern Times, dated 19th August 2016, (which can be found towards the foot of this page). Dr Dargie is responsible for The Sand Dune Vegetation Survey of Scotland published by Scottish Natural Heritage and is involved in the NotCoul group. His far from favourable working audit (19th October 2017) of Annex B: Ecology of the Environmental Statement submitted in support of the planning application can be found at http://nebula.wsimg.com/8735d9e855581da0c1543e50a7f97466?AccessKeyId=EDC827D8AD8BC3E385FC&disposition=0&alloworigin=1 and is expanded upon in the NotCoul comment to The Highland Council.
On 1st September 2016 John Finnie (msp Highlands and Islands) lodged three questions regarding Coul Links with The Scottish Parliament. These received answers from Kevin Stewart, Minister for Local Government and Housing on 20th September 2016. http://www.parliament.scot/parliamentarybusiness/28877.aspx?SearchType=Advance&MSPId=4947&SearchFor=AllQuestions&DateChoice=3&SortBy=DateSubmitted On 3rd November 2017 Mr Finnie lodged a motion with The Scottish Parliament (Motion S5M-08620 Coul Links) the final sentence of which closes, "... at a time when Brexit has caused considerable anxiety regarding environmental protections, granting permission for this development could send a dangerous message to developers that Scotland's highly protected sites are open to development at the expense of the environment." http://www.parliament.scot/parliamentarybusiness/28877.aspx?SearchType=Advance&ReferenceNumbers=S5M-08620&ResultsPerPage=10 On 17 November 2017 The Northern Times reported local councillor Jim McGillivray (East Sutherland and Edderton ward, also Director of Embo Trust which has a stake in the proposed golf course) as saying that "Mr Finnie is showing total disrespect to the point of contempt for the democratic planning system in the Highlands". His ward colleague councillor Deirdre Mackay is reported as saying "I take a pretty dim view of this high-handed attempt to circumvent the planning process" and describing the four signatories to the motion as "Green List MSPs located in the central belt with no locus whatsoever in our area".
The primacy of local opinion is a common theme in statements supportive of the golf course. On 16 November 2017, Andy Stewart, President of Brora Golf Club, wrote to all members of the club urging them to "visit the Highland Council website, as the opponents to Coul Links, most of whom are not from the area and in some cases, not even Scotland, have committed many signatures and we need to have our say on this matter". It might be noted that the developers are "not from the area", "not even from Scotland" and their prospects for gaining planning consent would be enhanced by a convincing argument that their scheme is of national not purely local benefit.
Planning applications to The Highland Council
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
Dated 5 November 2018. Circulated 7 November 2018
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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/
28 January 2020
The Scotsman
Coul Links site is 'protected' so we shouldn't have to keep fighting developers
15 January 2020
BBC News
Green MSP: More important than ever to protect our wetlands
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-51090749
10 January 2020
The Northern Times
Coul Links could damage tourism (print only)
22 December 2019
The National
John Finnie: Our land can't just be a bonnie attraction
https://www.thenational.scot/news/18113099.land-cant-just-bonnie-visitor-attraction/
29 November 2019
Third Force News
Fate of precious wildlife site is in the Scottish Government's hands
29 November 2019
The Press & Journal
Fate of Coul Links in ministers' hands
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1900863/fate-of-coul-links-in-ministers-hands/
29 November 2019
The Northern Times
Decision on proposed new golf course at Coul Links due soon
29 November 2019
Scottish Wildlife Trust
Decision on Coul Links could come at any time
https://scottish-wildlifetrust.org.uk/news/decision-on-coul-links-could-come-at-any-time/
25 August 2019
The Observer
UK'is failing to protect wildlife habitats', new EU report shows
19 August 2019
The Ferret
Anger at US golf developer's attack on Scotland's environmental rules
https://theferret.scot/golf-keiser-coul-links-podcast/
19 August 2019
The National
US golf developer takes swing at Scotland's environment rules
13 August 2019
The Times
Coul Links: Wildlife groups 'using Trump to sabotage golf project'
8 July 2019
Brinkwire
Development v environment: where does the balance lie?
https://en.brinkwire.com/news/development-v-environment-where-does-the-balance-lie/
4 july 2019
GolfDigest.com Golfworld
Mike's magic touch: Why the Keiser Method works
https://www.golfdigest.com/story/why-the-keiser-method-works
3 July 2019
rspb.org.uk
Special conservation status of Trump golf dunes to be revoked. Can we make Scotland's environment great again?
2 July 2019
HuffPost
Donald Trump's Aberdeenshire golf course dunes could lose protected status
29 June 2019
Mail Online
Sand dunes at Trump's Aberdeenshire golf resort could lose their protected wildlife status after construction of fairways and greens 'destroyed dynamic nature of site'
28 June 2019
The Scotsman
Donald Trump golf course dunes to lose protected status
28 June 2019
The Guardian
Dunes at Trump golf course in Scotland to lose protected status
28 June 2019
The Telegraph
'Destroyed' dunes at Donald Trump Aberdeenshire golf course to lose special status
28 June 2019
The Times
'Destroyed' Donald Trump Menie golf course dunes to lose special status
28 June 2019
The National
'Destroyed' Trump golf course dunes to lose protected status
28 June 2019
BBC News
Trump golf course dunes to lose special status
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-48789620
11 June 2019
The Northern Times
£3.2k cost of Coul Inquiry
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/news/3-2k-cost-of-coul-inquiry-179036/
10 May 2019
No Laying Up
Podcast, episode 213: Mike Keiser (Coul Links: minutes 12.00 - 17.00)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-laying-up-golf-podcast/id880837011
22 March 2019
Ross-Shire Journal
Coul Links golf course plans slammed as 'damaging and inappropriate'
21 March 2019
The Press & Journal
Leading witness for opposition gives evidence as Coul Links inquiry enters day 13
21 March 2019
The Ferret
Sturgeon pressed to better protect wildlife
https://theferret.scot/ramsar-sturgeon-wildlife/
13 March 2019
Te Press & Journal
Witness tells Coul Links public inquiry that proposed plans are not flood-proofed
9 March 2019
The Guardian
Golf tycoons want to raid Scotland. It is our duty to defend its beauty
11 March 2019
Plantlife
Coul Links update
https://www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/blog/coul-links-update-1
8 March 2019
The Press & Journal
Coul Links site visit as inquiry postponed
28 February 2019
The Press & Journal
Second witness on the stand as Coul Links inquiry enters second day
27 February 2019
The Press & Journal
Controversial Coul Links public inquiry underway
25 February 2019
The Scotsman
Coul Links: inquiry into £6m Highland golf course plan to get under way
25 February 2019
The Times
Plea to ditch 'harmful' Coul Links wetlands golf course near Dornoch
22 February 2019
The Northern Times
Golf links planning inquiry set to begin
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/News/Golf-links-planning-inquiry-set-to-begin-22022019.htm
18 February 2019
The Herald
Inquiry ready for opening shots in golf battle for nature heaven
12 February 2019
ramblers.org/news
Walking bodies unite to fight controversial golf course bid
3 February 2019
The National
Scottish Government 'leave wildlife at risk' from Coul Links golf plan
3 February 2019
The Sunday Times
US tycoon Todd Warnock in the rough over plan to develop a five-star resort near Dornoch
3 February 2019
The Ferret
Ministers accused of 'skullduggery' that could harm wildlife
https://theferret.scot/ramsar-coul-links-scottish-ministers/
19 December 2018
The National
Scottish golf tourism value increases to £300m after strong growth
18 December 2018
The Great Otdoors
Walking bodies unite to fight controversial Coul Links golf course bid
18 December 2018
MailOnline
US billionaire golf tycoon's £10m plan for Scottish course to rival Trump's could be in ruins after animal charities fight to preserve rare sand fly
18 December 2018
The Scotsman
US billionaire plans for rival Trump golf course could be halted due to rare fly
17 December 2018
Press & Journal
Nature experts announced as Coul Links inquiry appraoches
14 December 2018
Mark Avery
Press Release (RSPB) - Coul Links
https://markavery.info/2018/12/14/press-release-coul-links/
8 November 2018
The Times
Tiny fly ready to stymie tycoons' golf links plan
17 November 2018
Press & Journal
Sutherland golf course fly is now on the endangered list
1 November 2018
Press & Journal
Rules teed up for Coul Links inquiry
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1599280/rules-teed-up-for-coul-links-inquiry/
31 October 2018
The National
Controversial Coul Links inquiry expected to begin in February
31 October 2018
Press & Journal
Setting the stage for a public inquiry into the Coul Links plan
30 October 2018
BBC News
Inquiry into Coul Links golf project expected in early 2019
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-46031012
27 October 2018
Press & Journal
Golf course hearing heading to court
21 September 2018
RSPB Scottish Nature Notes
Latest developments on the Coul Links campaign
25 August 2018
The Times
Ministers review Coul Links golf project
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/ministers-review-coul-links-golf-project-7jd5z0v0x
25 August 2018
The Orkney News
Golf course development on Coul Links to be reviewed by Scottish Government
25 August 2018
BirdGuides
Proposed Coul Links golf course suspended
https://www.birdguides.com/news/proposed-coul-links-golf-course-suspended/
25 August 2018
The Press & Journa;
Scottish Ministers 'call in' controversial Coul Links golf proposal
25 August 2018
The National
Scottish government delays controversial Coul Links golf course build
24 August 2018
BBC News
Controversial Coul Links golf project called in
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-45295948
24 August 2018
iNews
Coul Links Highland golf course plan to be scrutinised by Scottish Government
https://inews.co.uk/news/scotland/coul-links-highland-golf-course-plan-scottish-government/
24 August 2018
Holyrood
Scottish Government calls in Coul Links golf course planning application
18 August 2018
RSPB - Scottish Nature Notes
Conservation partners appeal to international body for rescue mission
14 August 2018
The Guardian
Plantwatch: unspoilt, rare dunes earmarked for new golf course
12 August 2018
The Herald
Plans for golf links on Scottisj wildlife site at Coul 'would be blocked' in England
9 August 2018
markavery.info
Coul Links - Jonny Hughes
https://markavery.info/2018/08/09/guest-blog-coul-links-by-jonny-hughes/
1 August 2018
Press & Journal
Decision on contraversial Coul Links delayed
31 July 2018
stv news
Coul Links golf course decision delayed after objections
https://stv.tv/news/north/1425394-coul-links-planning-permission-delayed-after-objections/
31 July 2018
The Northern Times
Scottish ministers extend their review period on Coul Links
31 July 2018
BBC News
Scotland's heritage sites need more protection, says NTS
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-45018063
31 July 2018
The Herald
Trust demands overhaul of planning system amid fears for iconic sites
31 July 2018
Press & Journal
'Changs laws or lose crucial heritage sotes", conservation boss claims
29 July 2018
The Times
Trump resort has 'ruined' sand dunes
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/trump-resort-has-ruined-sand-dunes-09cdkqnch
29 July 2018
The Guardian
Trump golf resort wrecked special nature site, reports reveal
27 July 2018
The Northern Times
Clock's ticking down quickly for decision on Coul Links golf bid
26 July 2018
The Scotsman
Aedan Smith: Now's the time for the Scottish Government to prove its environmrntal credentials
21 July 2018
pressreader - The Scotsman
The battle lines are drawn over golf course plan. Which side are you on?
https://www.pressreader.com/uk/the-scotsman/20180721/282991105688748
4 July 2018
Ramblers
Scottish Government urged to review Coul links golf course plan
4 July 2018
The Scotsman
Environmental experts call on Holyrood to block golf course
4 July 2018
The Times
Ministers are urged to review golf course plan
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/ministers-are-urged-to-review-golf-course-plan-bg6mwxbn0
3 July 2018
BBC Good Morning Scotland
0:36:00 - 0:42:00, 1:36:00 - 1:42.00 and 2:36:00 - 2:43.00
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0b8g4lw
3 July 2018
BBC News
International body concerned by Coul Links golf plan
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-44682618
2 July 2018
The Orkney News
Coul Links: Ramsar status; the UK government has failed in its obligations
26 June 2018
The Scotsman
101 reasons to stop the planned Coul Links golf course
25 June 2018
The Orkney News
The Coul Links saga shows councillors lack of respect for local opinion
This article was followed by a right to reply piece that once again identifies opponents of the golf plan as being from "south of the border" or "incomers". That the developers are American seems to be overlooked. https://theorkneynews.scot/2018/06/27/the-coul-links-right-to-reply-reaction-from-the-rspb/
25 June 2018
Golf Advisor
Could Coul Links help Scotland’s Highlands become as popular as St. Andrews?
https://www.golfadvisor.com/articles/coul-links-impact-17809.htm
23 June 2018
RSPB
Fate of Coul Links now in the hands of Scottish Government
23 June 2018
The Guardian
Highland fury as Trump rival drives golf course plan forward
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2018/jun/23/highland-fury-trump-rival-drives-golf-course-plan
21 June 2018
The Times
Councillors ignore environment to approve £8m Coul Links plan
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/councillors-ignore-environment-to-approve-8m-golf-course-plan-9sxcqq2sv
21 June 2018
Marine Conservation Society
Scottish Government urged to step in to save Coul Links
https://www.mcsuk.org/news/coul_links
21 June 2018
The National
Coul Links golf course final say will be by ministers
https://www.mcsuk.org/news/coul_links
21 June 2018
Press and Journal
Plans for Coul Links golf course get the go-ahead in spite of locals’ concerns
20 June 2018
The Herald
Anger as controversial golf course plans gets go-ahead despite mass objections
20 June 2018
The Scotsman
Controversial Highland dunes golf course gets green light
https://www.scotsman.com/news/controversial-highland-dunes-golf-course-gets-green-light-1-4757394
20 June 2018
inews
Coul Links: £10m Scottish golf course approved despite habitat destruction fears
20 June 2018
BBC News
Embo’s Coul Links golf course backed by councillors
https://www.bbc.co.uk.news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-44537876
20 June 2018
The National
Councillors to decide whether to allow Coul Links golf course
http://www.thenational.scot/news/16301030.Councillors_to_decide_whether_to_allow_Coul_Links_golf_course/
20 June 2018
insider.co.uk
Coul Links golf course plan decision due
https://www.insider.co.uk/news/coul-links-golf-development-highlands-12748689
16 June 2018
Press & Journal
Councillors to make final decision on Coul Links golf course plans
15 June 2018
BBC News
Refusal recommended again for Coul Links near Embo
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-44495020
8 June 2018
National Trust for Scotland
Conservation bodies ask First Minister to step in on Coul Links decision
https://www.nts.org.uk/stories/conservation-bodies-ask-first-minister-to-step-in-on-coul-links-decision
6 June 2018
Press & Journal
Highland councillors defy their officials by voicing unanimous support for Coul Links plans
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1491262/highland-councillors-defy-their-officials-by-voicing-unanimous-support-for-coul-links-plans/
5 June 2018
BBC News
Councillors defer decision on Coul Links golf course
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-44371329
5 June 2018
Third Force News
First minister must step in to save precious habitat from destruction
http://thirdforcenews.org.uk/tfn-news/first-minister-must-step-in-to-save
5 June 2018
Golf course architecture
Decision on Coul Links deferred for two weeks
http://www.golfcoursearchitecture.net/content/decision-on-coul-links-deferred-for-two-weeks
5 June 2018
Bunkered
Coul Links developer ‘thankful’ after councillors defer course decision
http://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/coul-links-developer-thankful-after-councillors-defer-course-decision
5 June 2018
golfpunkhq
Coul Links development moves another step closer
http://www.golfpunkhq.com/news/article/coul-links-development-moves-another-step-closer
3 June 2018
The Herald
10 species at risk of extinction amid fears Scotland is missing wildlife targets
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/16266073.10_species_at_risk_of_extinction_amid_fears_Scotland_is_missing_wildlife_targets/
2 June 2018
The National
MSP raises hope that Coul Links plan could still tee off
http://www.thenational.scot/news/16265206.MSP_raises_hope_that_golf_course_plan_could_still_tee_off/
31 May 2018
The Times
Sand traps Trump rival’s plan to build 450-acre golf course
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/sand-traps-trump-rivals-plan-to-build-450-acre-golf-course-3tjrkd6wm
31 May 2018
thirdforcenews
Charities’ joy as controversial golf plans sunk
http://thirdforcenews.org.uk/tfn-news/charities-joy-as-controversial-golf-plans-sunk
31 May 2018
The Scotsman
Trump rival’s plan for golf course on rare Scottish dunes at risk
https://www.scotsman.com/news/environment/trump-rival-s-plan-for-golf-course-on-rare-scottish-dunes-at-risk-1-4747421
31 May
2018
Press & Journal
Councillors face huge decision over controversial Highland golf course
plans
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1487017/councillors-face-huge-decision-over-controversial-highland-golf-course-plans/
31 May 2018
scottishconstructionnow.com
Refusal recommended for Coul Links golf course
http://www.scottishconstructionnow.com/26592/building-briefs-may-30th-3/#
30 May 2018
BBC News
Refusal recommended for Coul Links golf course
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-44302982
30 May 2018
golfcoursearchitecture
Coul Links preparing for planning hearing set for 5 June
http://www.golfcoursearchitecture.net/content/coul-links-preparing-for-planning-hearing-set-for-5-june
28 May 2018
golfpunkhq.com
Second statutory body removes key objections to Coul Links golf development
http://www.golfpunkhq.com/news/article/second-statutory-body-removes-key-objections-to-coul-links-golf-development-
24 May 2018
Press & Journal
Campaigners question economic claims of Coul Links developers
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1482079/campaigners-question-economic-claims-of-coul-links-developers/
11 May 2018]
Press & Journal
Coul Links would be ‘good for the economy and environment,’ says US mayor
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1472397/coul-links-would-be-good-for-the-economy-and-environment-says-us-mayor/
21 April 2018
Press & Journal
Huge public reaction to Coul Links golf course plans
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/inverness/1459054/huge-public-reaction-to-coul-links-gold-course-plans/
3 April 2018
BBC radio 4: Costing the earth
Dunes into bunkers
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09xjw3p
31 March 2018
rspb.org.uk
What’s happening at Coul Links: campaign update
http://ww2.rspb.org.uk/community/ourwork/b/scotland/archive/2018/03/31/what-s-happening-at-coul-links-campaign-update.aspx
BBC News
Sepa removes objections to Coul Links golf course
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-43540811
26 March 2018
Golf Monthly
Proposed Coul Links golf course in Scotland moves closer
http://www.golf-monthly.co.uk/news/proposed-coul-links-golf-course-scotland-153170
26 March 2018
The Scotsman
Controversial “world-class” Highlands golf course a step nearer
https://www.scotsman.com/business/controversial-world-class-highlands-golf-course-a-step-nearer-1-4712689
26 March 2018
Press & Journal
SEPA withdraws Coul Links objections
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1441251/sepa-withdraws-coul-links-objections/
26 March 2018
Northern Times
SEPA withdraw objections to Coul Golf Course development
https://www.northern-times.co.uk/News/SEPA-withdraw-objections-to-Coul-Golf-Course-development-25032018.htm
20 February 2018
Press & Journal
Coul Links “masterpiece” will bring sustainable economic benefits to the Highlands
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/highlands/1418187/coul-links-masterpiece-will-bring-sustainable-economic-benefits-highlands/
20 February 2018
thegolfbusiness.co.uk
World’s fifth oldest golf course is losing 1.5 metres of land per year to coastal erosion
http://www.thegolfbusiness.co.uk/2018/02/worlds-fifth-oldest-golf-course-is-losing-1-5-metres-of-land-per-year-to-coastal-erosion/
18 February 2018
Herald Scotland
Warning: Golf links will disappear into the sea
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/homenews/16030511.Warning__golf_links_will_disappear_into_the_sea/
9 February 2018
Press & Journal
Nicola Sturgeon dismisses claim that officials interfered in Highland golf course plans
https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/politics/holyrood/1410539/nicola-sturgeon-dismisses-claim-that-officials-interfered-in-highland-golf-course-plans/
8 February 2018
BBC News
Green’s John Finnie challenges government over Coul Links
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-42993279
5 February 2018
theferret.scot
Scottish government ‘repeating mistakes over Trump’ by helping new golf plan
https://theferret.scot/scottish-government-mistakes-trump-coul-links/
5 February 2018
Daily Record
Scottish
Government accused of repeating Trump mistake as they schmooze with another golf billionaire
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/scottish-government-accused-repeating-trump-11970144
4 February 2018
The Herald
Trump mistakes must not be repeated
4 February 2018
The Herald
American tycoon 'getting cosy with Scottish Government over golf course plans - can this be happening again?
19 January 2018
The Press & Journal
SNH could remove one of its objections to controversial Coul Links
18 January 2018
The Scotsman
Controversial Highland dunes golf course moves a step closer
16 January 2018
theverge.com
The billionaire vs, the fly
6 January 2018
Press & Journal
Coul Link opponents accused of issuing “mish-mash of inaccuracies”
31 December 2017
heraldscotland.com
2018: the shape of things to come: Climate change front and centre
24 December 2017
heraldscotland.com
2017 The year in review: Our blue planet at risk from climate pollution
24 December 2017
podchaser.com
Coul Links, will it happen? Mins. 19.10 - 33.00
22 December 2017
scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk
Last chance to save Coul Links
https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/news/last-chance-save-coul-links/
22 December 2017
The Northern Times
Coul row hots up
http://www.northern-times.co.uk/News/Coul-row-hots-up-22122017.htm
22 December 2017
thenational.scot
Coul Links battle hots up as objectors attack golf course plan
21 December 2017
thenational.scot
Letters: Warnock was not serious about discussing Coul Links, says Finnie
21 December 2017
thenational.scot
Todd Warnock: It’s not fair to bring Trump into Coul Links debate
20 December 2017
Press & Journal
Golf course developers scathing over ‘scare tactics’ by eco group
19 December 2017
Inside Ecology
Over 900 objections speak out against Coul Links golf course plans
19 December 2017
geoffshackleford.com
Coul Links Co-Developer: "How I discovered Trump is fueling anti_US feeling"
19 December 2017
The Scotsman
US golf developer accuses opponents of anti-American bias
19 December 2017
The Scotsman
Todd Warnock: How I discovered Trump is fueling anti-US feeling
18 December 2017
Press & Journal
Conservation groups back SEPA objection to Coul Links plans
15 December 2017
birdguides.com
Golf course risk to Coul Links
https://www.birdguides.com/news/golf-course-risk-to-coul-links/
15 December 2017
finegolf.co.uk
Coul Links welcomed?
http://www.finegolf.co.uk/2017/12/15/coul-links-welcomed/
15 December 2017
golfpunkhq.com
Coul Links responds to RSPB statement
http://www.golfpunkhq.com/news/article/coul-links-responds-to-rspb-statement
14 December 2017
The Press & Journal
Bird charity claims golf links threat to ‘amazing’ rare habitat
14 December 2017
bunkered.com
Coul Links team accuse RSPB of 'spreading misinformation'
14 December 2017
thenational
RSPB warn that golf course plan at Coul Links could hit wildlife
9 December 2017
golfpunkhq.com
The battle against Coul Links goes global
http://www.golfpunkhq.com/news/article/the-battle-against-coul-links-goes-global
8 December 2017
thenational
John Finnie: The possible threat to the Coul Links must not be sidelined
6 December 2017
cablemagazine.scot
Not Coul: the golf development question, revisited
https://www.cablemagazine.scot/croal-not-coul/
4 December 2017
The Press & Journal
Golf course backers shrug off burgeoning opposition
1 December 2017
The Northern Times
Battle to prevent Coul Links golf course development going ahead goes viral
1 December 2017
The Northern Times - letters
Not Coul rests on the quality of our arguments
The letters to which Dr Dargie is responding can be found in pdf format at the foot of this page
29 November 2017
rspb.org.uk - our work - Scottish nature notes
Coul Links: A blow to the development and a surprise invite
29 November 2017
bunkered.co.uk
Coul Links project takes ‘big step forward’
http://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/coul-links-project-takes-big-step-forward
28 November 2017
BBC Scotland
Coul Links developers remain positive in face of objections
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-42143171
27 November 2017
The Northern Times
Coul Links developers welcome SNH objection
http://www.northern-times.co.uk/News/Coul-Links-developers-welcome-SNH-objection-27112017.htm
heraldscotland.com published the same press release from the developers verbatim pasted in as a news story on 28 November
27 November 2017
The Northern Times
SNH object to Coul Links golf course proposal
http://www.northern-times.co.uk/News/SNH-object-to-Coul-Links-golf-course-proposal-27112017.htm
27 November 2017
rspb.org.uk - community - Scottish nature notes
Save Coul Links: conservation partnership appeals to Ramsar
25 November 2017
heraldscotland.com
Scottish Natural Heritage opposes plan for new golf course at Coul Links
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/environment/15683255.Golf_course_plan_suffers_new_blow/
24 November 2017
thenational.scot
Trump rival's planned site for Highland golf course should 'be protected for the nation', says National Trust for Scotland
24 November 2017
The Press & Journal
Hotel to expand as it cheers new golf course plan
24 November 2017
The Times
Golfers will destroy dunes ecosystem at Coul Links, says National Trust for Scotland
24 November 2017
The Northern Times
Confidence in Coul Links project prompts Royal Golf expansion
24 November 2017
Scotsman.com
Protest grows over dunes golf course planned by Trump rival
24 November 2017
The Northern Times - Letters
Can we not have a sensible debate about Coul Links golf?
This letter is a response to one published in The Northern Times of 17 November 2017 a copy of which can be found at the foot of this page.
23 November 2017
inews.co.uk
Trump-style golf row as National Trust objects to £10m course
https://inews.co.uk/essentials/news/uk/trump-style-golf-row-national-trust-objects-new-10m-course/
The Press & Journal
Why not all are in favour of the development
BBC l News
Third Force News
The National
Golf Punk
The Northern Times l News
thepetitionsite.com
www.dornoch.org.uk
The Northern Times | Sport
Coul Links golf course taking shape
The Northern Times | Letters
Golf course would ruin a vital area
January 2016
Links Magazine
Next On the Tee for Coore & Crenshaw
26 December 2015
Coul Links Kan De Schotse Nummer Een Worden
http://www.golf.be/nl/nieuws/p/detail/coul-links-kan-de-schotse-nummer-een-worden
Autumn/Winter 2015
Travelling The Fairways Newsletter
http://www.ttfgolf.com/locations/news/winter-newsletter-2015/
26 November 2015
Links House blog
Potential New Golf Course at Coul Links, Embo – 3 miles from Links House
http://www.linkshousedornoch.com/blog/?p=267
06 November 2015
www.golf.com
Bandon Dunes Owner Mike Keiser To Build Course Near ...
06 November 2015
The Northern Times | News
http://www.northern-times.co.uk/News/Mixed-opinion-over-proposed-golf-course-at-Embo-05112015.htm
01 November 2015
World Golf Report
http://worldgolfreport.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/the-week-that-was-november-1-2015.html
31 October 2015
Press and Journal
Hotel Owner Considers Building New Golf Course In Sutherland
30 October 2015
Bunkered
Dornoch Area In Line For New Course | Golf Magazine News
http://www.bunkered.co.uk/golf-news/dornoch-area-in-line-for-new-course
30 October 2015
Coul Links Beach - Golf Advisor
http://www.golfadvisor.com/articles/coul-links-golf-course-scottish-highlands-15511.htm
30 October 2015
The Northern Times | News
http://www.northern-times.co.uk/News/New-world-class-golf-course-for-east-Sutherland-29102015.htm
29 October 2015
Unplayable Lies: All Hail Keiser
http://scottbsimpson.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/all-hail-keiser.html
28 October 2015
Coore & Crenshaw To Build Keiser's Course In Scotland ...
http://scottishgolfpodcast.com/coore-crenshaw-coul-links-update/
28 October 2015
Forum
http://www.606v2.com/t61070-mike-keiser-of-bandon-fame-possibly-building-scottish-course-in-dornoch
29 July 2015
Bandon Dunes Developer Shrugs Off Donald Trump's Attacks On His Oregon Golf Resort
http://www.oregonlive.com/mapes/index.ssf/2015/07/bandon_dunes_developer_shrugs.html
July 2006
Brainstormnw.com
http://www.brainstormnw.com/Entertainment/IfYouBuildItTheyWillGolf.html
Northern Times letters 24.11.17.pdf
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