Hold-up could bunker dream for golf links

CARNOUSTIE golf bosses have been promised the pace will be upped to drive forward a billionpound vision for the jewel in Angus’s sporting crown.

They want to agree a new 125-year lease with landlords Angus Council who own three town courses, including the world-famous Championship links.

Carnoustie Golf Links Management Committee (CGLMC) says it is critical to ensure the return of championships such as the Open.

The plans were first presented to the council four years ago.

In a showdown with councillors, links chief executive Michael Wells could barely conceal his frustration over the slow progress.

He told a marathon six-hour council meeting: “Our reputation and credibility is on the line.”

The Tele revealed last week the links committee is to buy and redevelop the landmark Carnoustie Golf Hotel overlooking the 1st tee and 18th green.

Council chief executive Margo Williamson has described the future direction of the links’ management as one of the biggest decisions the authority will ever take.

The current 55-year lease runs out in 2033.

CGLMC wants to form a new company to sublease the Championship, Burnside and Buddon courses.

The council has admitted the status quo is not an option but is looking at the possibility of its own management arrangement, or tweaking the CGLMC plan.

Authority bosses say progress has been stymied by a range of factors including the pandemic, cost-of-living crisis, staff pressures and arranging support for Ukrainian refugees.

Mr Wells said he recognised those pressures but added: “Adhering to the timeline now is critical.

“This is about securing the return of the Open long term and creating a world-leading destination to potentially deliver more than £1bn of economic benefit to Scotland – £500m of which will reside in Angus.”