Castle Stuart Golf Club's plan for lodges hits flood report hitch

Highland Council's flood risk management team has objected to a planning application to build lodges beside Castle Stuart Golf Club at Dalcross - even though it concedes the development is at low risk of flooding.

The objection stands "until further information is provided" to allow the flood risk team to assess if the site is adequately drained.

The team's report states: "A development of this size is required to provide a Drainage Impact Assessment written in accordance with The Highland Council’s Supplementary Guidance: Flood Risk and Drainage Impact Assessment."

Cabot Highland the owners of Castle Stuart Golf Club wants to develop accommodation to support the existing golf development at Castle Stuart.

The proposed lodges comprise a total of 36 apartments and replace the previously approved accommodation facilities.

Cabot's second 18 hole golf course is nearing completion and they have applied for an extension of the existing clubhouse.

The proposed lodges are located to the north and south of the clubhouse, 10 of them overlooking the 18th hole, and would be set in a semi circle with a central area reserved for parking.

Pedestrian routes will link the lodges with the clubhouse, golf courses and associated facilities.

Planning permission was originally granted in 2005 for the development of two golf courses together with a hotel, timeshare units, health club, spa and associated facilities, but no further accommodation has commenced on site. When Cabot Highlands bought the golf club there was a review of the golfing facility and it is on this basis that the revised proposal is now submitted.

The application will be considered by the planners in due course.

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