The Scottish Government is facing renewed demands to explain how it will replace the economic opportunities lost following its decision to reject the proposed Coul Links golf course in East Sutherland.
Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP David Green has warned that the refusal leaves serious questions about future employment, investment and population decline in a part of the Highlands already struggling to retain younger residents.
Speaking to BBC News following Wednesday’s decision, Green said ministers must now explain what alternative opportunities they intend to deliver for the communities that had supported the development.
The proposed championship golf course near Embo was expected by its supporters to attract £50 million in private investment, with an economic impact assessment by Professor David Bell forecasting up to 400 full time equivalent jobs and approximately £12 million annually for the local economy.
Those figures represented projected economic benefits rather than guaranteed employment or revenue.
Communities for Coul had also proposed £1 million in funding during the first two years for habitat restoration and controlling invasive species across the wider site.
Supporters argued that the combination of tourism investment, employment and environmental management could provide lasting benefits for East Sutherland.
The development had received backing in a local community ballot and was supported by Highland Council’s planning committee before Scottish Ministers intervened.
However, following a public inquiry, ministers refused planning permission because of concerns about significant harm to internationally important wildlife habitats.
Green believes the economic consequences of that decision now require a clear response.
He said:
“I’m bitterly disappointed and I think many folk right across East Sutherland and the wider Highlands will be bitterly disappointed as well.
“Let’s put this decision into context.
“The county of Sutherland has a population of around 13,000 and we know that we’re really struggling with depopulation.
“Young people in particular are looking for jobs, looking for housing and having to leave their area.
“I remember sitting down over the course of the election with one mother who was deeply concerned about job prospects for her son and whether he’d have to move away from home, and looked at this as a great opportunity.
“By 2040 we’re looking at depopulation decline of up to about 15%.
“When I hear people celebrating this decision I’m just dismayed.
“What ministers have said no to is 400 full-time equivalent jobs, up to £12 million a year for the local economy, £1 million for habitat restoration.
“But also a complete loss of the community share that would be going right back into the community worth hundreds of thousands of pounds a year.
“There was a referendum locally and it was supported by the local community but that’s been ignored.
“Incidentally the Highland Council also approved its planning proposal as well but that’s also been ignored.
“There’s now a real responsibility on Scottish Government ministers to come forward and explain to my constituents how they’re going to replace the lost opportunities that we’re now no longer going to see.”
His comments underline the wider disagreement surrounding Coul Links, where supporters have emphasised employment and community benefits while opponents have argued that the protected coastal environment should not be exposed to the risks associated with development.
The latest refusal means the proposed investment cannot proceed under the rejected planning application.
For Green, the immediate issue is what happens next for East Sutherland, particularly for younger residents seeking employment and opportunities to remain in their home communities.
