Local residents slam proposed Scottish golf resort 

Plans for a new multi-million-pound golf resort in Scotland have come under fire. 

Feddinch residents told The Courier that the St Andrews proposal has ‘no benefit’ to locals and infringes green belt rules. 

Alvarez & Marsal Golf submitted plans to Fife Council in February that include an 18-hole golf course, clubhouse and on-site accommodation. 

The firm purchased the site from Mark Ogren – chief of Scottish football side Dundee United – in a £7million deal last summer. 

“It is not a hotel and golf club that will be accessible to the Scottish public,” said one local man. 

“It’s a private members only club on a gated site. 

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“Once again, we’re selling off chunks of St Andrews so that overseas businessmen can profit with no benefit to locals. 

“Residents at Feddinch are not nimbys. They are very much in favour of a golf course – but they want it done in a way that is sympathetic.” 

A new planning application was lodged last month, for a gatehouse, floodlit driving range, spa, six houses and a multi-event venue. 

Concerns have also been raised over ethical and legal implications of the plans for the 100-hectare site. 

“Golf course land in Scotland is legally accessible to the public under the Land Reform Act,” the man added. 

“Secondly, green belt land can be used for sporting purposes but only when they encourage participation and access to green spaces. 

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“This is clearly not the case here.” 

However, site owners have assured the resort will bring economic benefits and a ‘luxury ambience’. 

A&M said it is a “sensitively designed proposal that has been carefully designed and shaped,” following feedback from the community. 

“It has always been, and continues to be, our intention that this development will provide significant benefits to St Andrews and surrounding areas through increased investment and job creation.” 

The American company is the latest to try to bring the plans to life after several attempts in recent years. 

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.