The Chief Executive of Angus Council has joined local politicians in welcoming the 147th Open to Carnoustie — and acknowledged there had been disruption for local residents.
As the players began to battle it out in earnest for the claret jug, Margo Williamson praised council staff, the R&A, Carnoustie Golf Links and other partner agencies for the months of hard work and professionalism that have been invested into delivering the global sporting spectacle.
Margo said: “Staging The Open in Carnoustie will achieve an economic impact of around £70 million for the area. That will benefit our communities, local traders and businesses in Carnoustie and Angus, as well as farther afield.
“It also brings a sense of positivity to the area, a buzz of excitement that I hope everyone can enjoy — both our local residents and the tens of thousands of visitors we welcome to the Angus area.
“Obviously, an event of this scale does not come without some inconvenience and local disruption, but we have strived to minimise this. I hope that is outweighed by the prestige and opportunity that hosting such an event brings. The way that our local traders, services and communities have embraced The Open and the opportunities it presents has been inspirational.
“Carnoostival – a day of family fun at Carnoustie House Grounds for more than 4000 local people — is just one example of how the community has taken this chance to celebrate Carnoustie. I look forward to joining in.
“Carnoustie and its people bring as much to the event as the event brings to the town. Anticipation has been building and there is a great excitement that The Open has returned to us after 11 years.
“Carnoustie is a fantastic venue and I know that the R&A and the golfers who will vie for the Claret Jug have been impressed by the course, the venue and our community. It is a perfect course and a perfect location, easily accessible by road and rail.
“I’m also very appreciative of the efforts of our staff over many months. That hard work continues this week during the event and covers a range of services, including planning, legal, health and safety, trading standards, economic development, property and roads to name but a few.
“The eyes of the world are upon us, and I am sure that Carnoustie and its people will rise to the occasion.”
