Baffling approach to major projects

SIR, – I am once again bemused and baffled by our region’s approach to major tourism and other projects which other regions would kill for and which would help reduce our reliance on oil and gas.

I refer, of course, to the Jack Nicklaus golf development at Ury, pictured, which appeared to be under threat, according to your report on September 23. Aberdeenshire councillors made the right decision earlier this year when they gave the development the green light, despite concerns over the loss of ancient woodland. These councillors rightly decided that the “economic and social benefit outweighed the loss of part of the ancient woodland”.

Then we heard there were fresh doubts that it would go ahead, due to a recent court ruling on developer contributions, but those appear to have been cleared away by yesterday’s council decision.

There are obviously risks here for the council, but developers also take risks with major projects of this nature. Surely it is more sensible to get round the table with the developer and other stakeholders and explore solutions, rather than place projects under threat.

This way, we would come across as forward-thinking and might actually get projects delivered in time to help bolster the economy when it is on its knees.

J Stewart Spence, Owner, The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, Aberdeen.