Golf legend Jack Nicklaus could visit the North East to see work begin on his new £80 million golf complex if plans are approved.
Ury Estate is set to become one of the most select golf residential-resort communities in the world with plans having been submitted in February to create an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus signature championship golf course.
It would become only the second Jack Nicklaus signature golf course in Scotland, following the PGA Centenary course at Gleneagles, which opened in 1993 and hosted last year’s Ryder Cup.
If approved by a council committee later this year, preparation work on the course could start by the end of the year and it’s hoped the multiple major winner will fly in to mark the start of building work.
Nicklaus himself previously said he is looking forward to the challenge of infusing his course design with the incredible Mearns scenery, including the majestic centrepiece of Ury House.
The house, which has been empty since the 1950s, will be restored to its former glory and converted into the golf clubhouse, complete with function and conference facilities.
The ultimate plan is to turn the B-listed property into a luxury hotel and clubhouse and create a mix of affordable and luxury housing in landscaped grounds.
Previously, Aberdeenshire Council has given planning consent to FM Group to build 230 homes, which would help fund the renovation of the house.
A further 84 homes have also been approved, which will be built at East Lodge.
Nicklaus said: “Designing a golf course is my total expression.
“I always knew my golf game would only go on so long. But what I have learned can be put into a piece of ground that will last beyond me.”
An independent socio-economic impact report, by EKOS, commissioned for the planning application, has said the proposed championship golf course and associated housing development will generate £55.5 million into the Aberdeenshire economy over a 15-year period and create 200 jobs.
The planning application is expected to go before the Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee in the coming weeks.