Carnoustie businesses have issued a last-gasp plea to stop a £3 million golf centre extension at the first hole.
On Tuesday, councillors will be asked to approve Carnoustie Golf Links Management Committee (CGLMC) plans to expand its business with a restaurant and bar overlooking the links.
Dave Scorgie of the Aboukir, on behalf of a group of hotels who feel their clientele will be further drawn away from the town, sent an open letter to his local elected members.
However, the applicants have criticised the “negative” letter that claims the use of £3 million in potential investment to build an extension is “limited”.
Signed by the Station, Corner and Dalhousie hotels, the 19th Hole and the Aboukir, the missive pleads with Angus Provost Helen Oswald and councillors Bill Bowles and Brian Boyd to bunker the application.
The CGLMC states the upgrade would help the Links maintain its place in the Open rotation in a “competitive” environment.
But Mr Scorgie writes: “Having had time to consider the proposal, I am extremely perplexed that a proposed investment of circa £3 million is so limited in its ambition and vision.
“There appears to be no obvious connection between this proposal and the work developed by the Carnoustie Charrette, the regeneration of Carnoustie High Street and the current or future position of the incumbent golf clubs (Carnoustie and Caledonia) located in Links Parade.”
The trustees of CGLMC state the preliminary task of applying for planning permission did not commit the centre to being expanded.
A spokesman said: “All we are seeking to do with this extension is to bring Carnoustie up to the level of our competitors.”
He added that anecdotal evidence suggests golfers leave for the likes of St Andrews following a round at Carnoustie.
“Our belief is that, by providing a modern bar and restaurant facility, this will encourage visiting golfers to remain in the town, which can only benefit shops, hotels and the wider community,” he said.