Golfer claims health and safety being taken too far

A GOLFER has accused authorities of taking health and safety to extremes after complaints from neighbours about errant golf balls prompted changes to a Fife course.

Colin Gerard branded events at Leven Links “perplexing” following anger from residents living near the East Links about stray shots.

Mr Gerard called for an end to the “madness”, urging Leven Links not to tamper with the course simply to appease “petty” complaints.

He said: “What concerns me most is that an already cash-strapped joint links committee is having to bend over backwards to pander to or pacify a few residents who have complained of errant golf balls.

“Leven Links realised there was a problem and have now moved the outof-bounds quite significantly from the roadside. Leven Links has also put signs on the 9th and 16th tees asking golfers to be aware of the surrounding properties.

“To me that’s where it should end, but we are now having to move the 16th fairway to the left in order to take out the dogleg.”

Mr Gerard said a fence could be erected or trees planted to reduce the risk without removing the dogleg, but suggested that could lead to further complaints about the effect it would have on property prices.

Lisa McCann, environmental health service manager at Fife Council, confirmed environmental health officers have been working with Leven Links Joint Committee to reduce stray golf balls — but stressed the council has never suggested play should be stopped.

A sign has been erected warning of the upcoming roadworks.