Carnoustie Golf Links launches £100m investment plan to revive the Open

A legendary golf course has unveiled a £100 million investment plan to bring the Open Championship back to Tayside.

Bosses at Carnoustie Links in Angus have launched a public consultation as new investors seek to take over the running of the venue.

Without investment in the golf course hotel and surrounding facilities, it will likely be difficult for Carnoustie to host the historic tournament again.

Local residents are now being asked to give their views on possible changes – including who manages the golf course, which is currently owned by Angus Council.

The review has raised concerns among local golfers about their access to the course, but the manager has assured members they will continue to have access.

“I think the biggest concern for locals is whether our golf is becoming more expensive? Is it becoming less accessible,” says Malcolm Lowe, who has been a member for around 50 years.

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“But for it to become what they’re looking for, which is a major tourist attraction, I think it’s a great idea.”

Carnoustie Links is planned to be operated by the owners of the golf course hotel, which was sold to an investment group last year.

The man who currently runs the course says tens of millions of pounds would need to be invested.

“Behind the scenes there is a consortium of investment groups looking to finance the project,” said Michael Wells, managing director of Carnoustie Golf Links.

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“What is important is that they primarily want to ensure access for local people at a fair price and create an environment in which we can invest as much as possible in the hotel and the surrounding infrastructure.”

Carnoustie was the last venue to host the Open in 2018. The town centre’s shops are supporting the efforts to bring it back.

“We see a big build-up. The set-up and tear-down is huge for us because there are a lot of contractors in town,” said bakery owner Mark Robb.

“Most of them come in and visit our store. And the legacy that remains.

“I think it’s bringing people who wouldn’t normally come back to town to take a closer look.”

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