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21 Feb 2020

Welcome news on Coul Links

Coul Links
Coul Links
Decision protects one of Scotland’s last remaining dune habitats.

Scottish ministers have rejected plans for a golf course at Coul Links near Embo, East Sutherland, following a public inquiry.

The Trust was part of a coalition of conservation organisations campaigning against the plans, due to concerns over huge damage to these internationally important dune habitats.

Today, the Scottish Government said that the ‘likely detriment to natural heritage is not outweighed by the socio-economic benefits of the proposal’.

Our Head of Conservation & Policy, Stuart Brooks, said: ‘Along with many of our partners who’re concerned with the conservation of Scotland’s natural heritage, we’re pleased with today’s decision. Scotland’s environment needs to be protected and now we know these dunes are safe from the threat of development.’

Quote
“This decision recognises that we face a biodiversity emergency, and is particularly apposite given that in April, Scotland will lead an international meeting on protecting biodiversity in the 21st century.”
Stuart Brooks, Head of Conservation & Policy
A close-up head and shoulders photo of a smiling man wearing a navy National Trust for Scotland soft shell jacket. Trees are in the background.

Buglife, Butterfly Conservation, Marine Conservation Society, Plantlife, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Wildlife Trust and the National Trust for Scotland all worked together to save Coul Links.

The National Trust for Scotland works every day to protect Scotland’s national and natural treasures. From coastlines to castles, art to architecture, wildlife to wilderness, we protect all of this For the Love of Scotland.

In Our Strategy for Protecting Scotland’s Heritage 2018–23, we set out how we’re planning to work towards our vision that Scotland’s heritage is valued by everyone and protected now, and for future generations.

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