Angus Council chief praises efforts of staff, links and R&A

The chief executive of Angus Council has joined politicians in welcoming the 147th Open to Carnoustie — and acknowledged there had been disruption for residents.

Margo Williamson praised council staff, the R&A, Carnoustie Golf Links and other partner agencies for the months of hard work needed to deliver such a global sporting spectacle.

Ms Williamson said: “Staging the Open in Carnoustie will achieve an economic impact of around

£70 million for the area. That will benefit our communities, traders and businesses in Carnoustie and Angus, as well as farther afield.

“It also brings a sense of positivity, a buzz of excitement that I hope everyone can enjoy.

“An event of this scale does not come without some inconvenience and disruption but we have strived to minimise this. I hope that is outweighed by the prestige and opportunity that hosting such an event brings.

“Carnoustie and its people bring as much to the event as the event brings to the town.

“Anticipation has been building and there is a great excitement that the Open has returned to us after 11 years.

“Carnoustie is a fantastic venue and I know that the R&A and the golfers who will vie for the Claret Jug have been impressed by the course, the venue and our community.

“I’m also very appreciative of the efforts of our staff over many months.

“That hard work continues this week during the event and covers a range of services, including planning, legal, health and safety, trading standards, economic development, property and roads to name but a few.

“The eyes of the world are upon us and I am sure that Carnoustie and its people will rise to the occasion.”

“The eyes of the world are upon us and I’m sure that Carnoustie and its people will rise to the occasion