RSPB condemns latest submission by developer behind controversial golf course

A wildlife charity has condemned the latest submission by the developer behind a controversial golf course in the Highlands.

Communities for Coul (C4C) has submitted plans to create a “world-class” 18-hole golf course near Embo, as well as a hotel.

The Coul link applicants claim the golf course is needed to help improve rare wetland habitat, but RSPB environmentalists say rare species at the internationally protected site would be threatened, and it would cause irreparable damage to the “extraordinary place”.

Highland Council granted planning permission for the site in 2023, despite the fact that the land has been designated as part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and 700 public objections were submitted in relation to the application.

The Scottish Government called in the decision in 2024.

Communities for Coul say the site has become “so degraded that it needs the very best in 21st century conservation to restore and protect it”.

The applicant previously stated that having the course on “about 0.1%” of the SSSI would generate enough cash to restore and protect the whole area.

Scottish ministers refused to grant permission for a golf course on the same site in 2020.

The Scottish Government’s Planning and Environmental Appeal Division (DPEA) reporter submitted their findings on the development in August 2025.

However, a decision is yet to be announced following a delay to allow C4C to submit the requested further ecological information.

RSPB Scotland, which is campaigning against the development, says newly submitted documents by the C4C are factually incorrect.

A spokesperson said: “The developer has submitted new documents about the impact of the golf course on the site’s internationally important wildlife.

“They claim a golf course is needed to improve the rare wetland habitat, and the tapestry of wildlife it supports. But the facts show the opposite: development would cause irreversible damage to this extraordinary place.

“Alongside other environmental organisations and local community group Not Coul, we will keep fighting to save Coul Links.”

The Scottish Government is expected to deliver its decision in the autumn.