The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Call for more support for golf clubs amid crisis
MP urges Scottish Government to give Fife clubs clearer guidance and additional help
Fife’s golf clubs are in need of greater support and clarity amid the coronavirus crisis, according to a local MP.
The region’s courses are vital to the area’s economy but clubs are worried they will hit financial turmoil when it comes to reopening.
North East Fife MP Wendy Chamberlain has urged the Scottish Government to give clearer guidance and additional support in recognition of their “unique” predicament.
Concerns were voiced at a meeting of golf clubs and organisations with Liberal Democrat Mrs Chamberlain and Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath independent MP Neale Hanvey.
As many clubs’ rateable values exceed £51,000 on account of their extensive land, they are not eligible for business grants.
There were also worries that some clubs feel pressure to reopen sooner than is safe, if left to interpret flexible guidance rather than mandatory rules.
When furloughed staff return there are concerns about a sudden stop to financial support.
Mrs Chamberlain said: “As the Member of Parliament representing St Andrews, the home of golf, I am keen to see that all golf courses get support where it is needed.
“They are a vital part of the north-east Fife economy.
“Many clubs are concerned that when they reopen and unfurlough their staff, the economic support is halted before clubs have the ability to open their shops and club houses, leaving them in a financially precarious position with large overheads and reduced income.
“I hope the finance secretary and the sports minister will recognise the unique position golf clubs are in and consider implementing extra support and clearer guidance.”
A Scottish Government spokesman said: “We have put in place a £2.3 billion package of support for Scottish businesses. That includes 1.6% rates relief for all non-domestic properties in 2020/21 and 100% relief for properties in retail, hospitality, leisure and airports.
“Our £20 million Creative, Tourism and Hospitality Enterprises Hardship Fund is part of our package of support for firms in those sectors not in receipt of non-domestic rate grants with awards of up to £25,000.”