The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
United owner Ogren behind plans for new golf resort
Dundee United owner Mark Ogren is behind plans for a new multi-million pound golf resort in St Andrews.
The Tangerines chairman, through his company, investment consultants GPH Engineering, is seeking planning permission to begin work on a new course to compete with the Old Course at the Home of Golf.
The American, with his Spanish business partner Hector Pous Rivero, has submitted proposals to Fife Council after purchasing the 97.58 hectare site at Feddinch Mains last year.
Their plans for the resort include picking up where a failed £25m project, designed by Open champion Tom Weiskopf, left off in 2014 with an 18hole course, clubhouse, golf accommodation including up to 41 luxury suites, a spa and restaurant.
A spokesman said: “If approved, the resort will provide golf club members and their guests with unrivalled standards.
“They will have access to a stunning clubhouse that combines outstanding quality in accommodation, dining and leisure. There will also be options available for community access.
“The Feddinch development will deliver considerable employment opportunities along with increased investment in the local Fife community.
“This includes jobs created through the construction process and direct on-site jobs including clubhouse staff, greenkeepers, marketing and sales staff and administrative positions.
“Off-site employment will also be supported through the spending of new members and their guests visiting local attractions.
“It is our clear desire to deliver a project with lasting economic benefits to the town, Fife and Scotland.
“Schemes such as this provide a vital means to support the recovery of the tourism sector from Covid19, delivering considerable employment opportunities – both during construction and on-site once complete.
“We’re looking forward to consulting widely with the community and key stakeholders over the coming months on our proposals, which will include a digital consultation event in May.”
Ogren recently reaffirmed his commitment to the Tangerines after selling his South Dakota baseball team – The Sioux Falls Canaries – and appears to be expanding his sporting assets in Scotland. United also have a base in the Fife town, training at St Andrews University Sports Centre.