Businesses and councillors have expressed concern that Carnoustie will not see the maximum benefit from the influx of visitors to next year’s Open golf tournament.
The R&A are not allowing ticket holders who leave the venue to be readmitted at this year’s tournament at Royal Birkdale, which starts next week.
The golf authority said the policy will be reviewed before the prestigious tournament returns to Carnoustie next year but worries have been expressed about the impact this rule could have on the town’s businesses.
David Valentine, who owns Simpsons of Carnoustie, the world’s second oldest golf shop, said the policy would be a “big blow” if it is in place next year.
He said: “It would affect pubs, cafes and shops in the town. To do this at major events is a big blow to the very people who support the golf courses year in, year out.
“Without the businesses and the people of Carnoustie, who purchased the links in 1892, The Open would not receive the wonderful welcome it has always enjoyed.
“I can only hope the R&A can reverse that decision.”
Libby Mcainsh of Two Sisters Cafe said the businesses in the town viewed The Open as a major opportunity to increase trade.
She said: “If the R&A go through with this it wouldn’t be helpful at all.
“A major sporting event is in our town and this decision would potentially impact on lots of businesses.”
A spokesman for The R&A said the no readmissions policy at this year’s event was as a result of security concerns.
He said: “We will review our arrangements following this year’s Championship, as we do each year, and one of the key considerations will be security.
“We will continue to focus on delivering an outstanding experience for everyone who attends The Open and will keep spectators informed of the arrangements in the build-up to next year’s Championship.”
However, Carnoustie councillor Brian Boyd urged the R&A to put in place security arrangements for people who leave and return to the links.
He said: “It’s a sign of the times that sporting events are requiring enhanced security. This can be seen at Wimbledon.
“However, I know that relatively few spectators leave during the day anyway so it could be managed to accommodate these people.
“I would hope the R&A would reconsider their position.”
Fellow town councillor Mark McDonald added: “I welcome the R&A’s stance of reviewing their decision before the 2018 competition.
“Carnoustie will be ready to welcome thousands of people to the town and I would hope our guests will take the opportunity to visit local businesses and help contribute to the positive atmosphere we’ve seen in previous years.”
