Scottish Green MSP for the Highlands & Islands, Ariane Burgess, has welcomed a major policy shift by the Scottish Government that strengthens protections for Coul Links and other internationally important wetlands, calling for the controversial golf course proposal at the site to be scrapped once and for all.
The new policy guidance confirms that Scotland’s Ramsar sites, wetlands of international importance will now be treated with the same level of protection as European-designated sites.
This means that any proposed development at Coul Links must undergo a rigorous Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) to determine its impact on the rare and endangered species that depend on the site.
Ariane has asked a series of Parliamentary questions during this session of Parliament, calling on the Government to update and publish its Ramsar policy.
The Coul Links dunes, located near Embo in East Sutherland, are one of the last remaining areas of undeveloped, species-rich dune habitat in Scotland.
The site is home to internationally significant wildlife, including Red List bird species such as curlews and warblers, and holds multiple environmental designations, including Ramsar status.
A private golf course development was controversially approved despite widespread local and national opposition and is now subject to an inquiry by a planning reporter.
The new policy now places a much higher bar on any future proposals, offering renewed hope to local residents and campaigners who have fought to protect the area.
Ariane said:
“I am delighted to hear that the Scottish Government are taking steps to protect nature here in Scotland.
“It is now up to Ministers to use their powers to keep our precious and unique habitats that provide homes for rare threatened species thriving and free for the people to enjoy, rather than handing them over to become private playgrounds for the wealthy.
“Coul Links sand dunes are very rare habitats, with a variety of vegetation and species dependent on them for their survival.
“This includes endangered birds on the Red List such as curlews and warblers.
“Planning permission should never have been granted in the first place, and I have joined campaigners across the area in objecting to this.
“East Sutherland is already well served by high-quality golf courses.
“Promises of investment and jobs must be balanced with the urgent need to protect nature, including these precious habitats already at risk of loss through climate change.
“Coul Links is an area enjoyed by wildlife and by people.
“Its status as a Ramsar site must be heeded by the Scottish Government, and marked safe from these destructive plans for yet another private golf course.
“We must not prioritise profits over public use of these beautiful spaces that are becoming few and far between in our country.”
“It’s good to see that we’ve got this much needed Scottish Government guidance.
“I look forward to seeing steps being taken to provide biodiversity training for councillors who sit on council planning committees so that they’re aware of the vital role these habitats play for the wellbeing of this part of the planet.”
This policy shift is a significant win for local communities, conservationists, and all those who have worked tirelessly to protect Coul Links.
It reinforces the importance of safeguarding Scotland’s natural heritage not just for biodiversity, but for the wellbeing and enjoyment of future generations.
