10 new Scottish golf courses currently in the pipeline

Unnamed ‘Pitcalzean Mains’ Project 

Where: Nigg, Highlands 
Designer: TBA 
ETA: April 2023 

One of the country’s most compelling new developments, a local farmer’s bid to build a ‘world class’ course in the Scottish Highlands is sure to delight Scottish golf historians. 

The
brainchild of Robert Mackenzie, the development has been earmarked for a
300-acre piece of land he owns just south of Tain, incorporating part
of the former Nigg Golf Course.  

The
original track was built in 1890 and was widely regarded to be one of
the finest ‘natural’ courses in the world. However, it was badly
impacted by the Second World War and finally closed – apparently for
good – in the 1960s. 

Mackenzie’s plans are no whim. He
has commissioned an unnamed but reportedly ‘world-leading’ golf course
architect to draw up two nine-hole courses that are to be complemented
by a driving range and practice area, as well as a clubhouse with a
restaurant, bar and accommodation. 

“People
I’ve spoken to suggest there is a need for one or more top-end courses
in the area to help develop it more as a golfing destination,” Mackenzie
told the Press & Journal. “I love history and the fact that I could
potentially build a golf course that already has 130 years of history
is exciting.” 

In his favour
is the fact that the site is not designated as a Site of Special
Scientific Interest (SSSI), so he will avoid a lot of red tape. It is
understood that Mackenzie has submitted a request for an Environmental
Impact Assessment Screening & Scoping Opinion from Highland Council
and, if all goes to plan, ground could be broken on the course this
winter.

Pic: The Press & Journal