Campaigners gear up to fight US billionaire who wants to rival Donald Trump’s golf empire

Conservationists are gearing up to fight against plans put forth by a US billionaire to build a luxury golf course on a wild Highland bay, in an attempt to rival Donald Trump’s golf empire. The controversial project, known as the Coul Links project and funded by tycoon Mike Keiser, has sparked concerns among environmental groups who are set to voice their opposition at a public inquiry starting next week.

The proposed golf course is planned to be constructed at Coul Links in Sutherland, an area housing one of Scotland’s last undeveloped dune systems, which is internationally recognised for its importance to nature and biodiversity. The site is home to rare birds and insects, including the globally endangered Fonseca’s Seed Fly, and is situated within three legally protected nature sites.

Developers argue that the 18-hole championship course will bring much-needed jobs and tourism to the area, but conservationists from organisations such as RSPB Scotland, Plantlife Scotland, Buglife, Ramblers Scotland, the Scottish Wildlife Trust, and Butterfly Conservation oppose the development, citing the irreplaceable value of Coul Links as a habitat for wildlife.

The Scottish Government has decided to review the decision made by Highland Council to approve the project, with public hearings scheduled for the coming week. Campaigners stress the significance of protecting places like Coul Links amidst a global nature and climate emergency, and call for planning decisions to align with Scotland’s commitment to safeguarding nature for its people.

This clash over the Coul Links project echoes previous disputes over golf course developments in Scotland, such as the contentious Trump International golf course at Menie. Environmentalists continue to advocate for the preservation of Scotland’s natural landscapes and wildlife habitats, emphasizing the need to balance economic development with environmental conservation.

In conclusion, the battle over the Coul Links golf course project highlights the ongoing debate between economic interests and environmental conservation. As conservationists and developers face off in public inquiries and legal proceedings, the future of this wild Highland bay remains uncertain, with implications for wildlife conservation and sustainable development in Scotland.