Traders express concern over proposed course

The Courier, 31 January 2004

St Andrews traders have voiced concerns over the possible impact on existing businesses in the university town if a new 18-hole golf course proposed by St Andrews Links Trust is given the green light.

Members of St Andrews Merchants' Association are now supporting calls for a full economic study to be carried out before any decision is taken on the plans put forward by the trust.

Honorary secretary of the association, Robert Inch, said yesterday the the proposals by the trust were considered at a recent meeting of its executive committee.

He added, "While the committee was not opposed to another golf course per se, there was concern expressed as to the possible impact the development could have on existing businesses."

Mr Inch explained that "vast sums of money" had been expended on the courses at the St Andrews Bay Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa, the Kingsbarns links course and also the Duke's Course in St Andrews.

He added, "The commercial viability of these private ventures may be put into question if this proposed new course is granted permission.

"There may also be an impact on local businesses, such as golf shops, bars and restaurants.

"For these reasons the association supports the call by St Andrews Community Council for an economic/retail impact study to be carried out before further consideration to the planning application is given."