Those of you following the campaign to Save Coul Links will know that we’re part of a group of conservation organisations fighting to stop proposals for a golf course on this triple protected wildlife site. Coul Links is one of the Scotland’s national treasures and is designated as a SPA, Ramsar site and SSSI. Kate Bellew, our Senior Conservation Planner, explains why the fate of Coul Links is now in the hands of the Scottish Government and why we urgently need your to help.
This week, Highland Council voted to approve proposals for a golf course at Coul Links, against the advice of Council officials, SNH and numerous environmental groups.
If this shocking decision is allowed to go-ahead it would have terrible consequences for the natural environment. Once these unique habitats are lost, they cannot be replaced. This development would set a terrible precedent. If triple-protected Coul Links is allowed to be destroyed for a golf course – is anywhere safe from development?
Responsibility of Scottish Government
All is not lost. Because of the significance of the environmental impacts, it’s the Scottish Government’s responsibility to make the final decision. They have the power to step in and save Coul Links.
The decision goes completely against Scottish Government’s international environmental commitments, which make it clear that areas like these should be protected.
We are leading an e-action calling on the Scottish Government to step in and ensure that Scotland upholds its international environmental commitments. Scotland’s reputation depends on it.
We have only a few weeks to urge the Scottish Government to call-in the decision. Please take action today. Click here for our e-action.
This decision could have far reaching implications. You don’t have to live in Scotland to take part in this campaign.
Look out for content from @RSPBScotland on Twitter, and RSPB Scotland and RSPB Highlands & Islands on Facebook as well as messages from our conservation partners Buglife, Butterfly Conservation Scotland, Plantlife Scotland, Marine Conservation Society, National Trust for Scotland and Scottish Wildlife Trust.
Please do like, share, retweet and engage with our campaign #SaveCoulLinks