Confusion reigns in Carnoustie as Angus Council sent out wrong information about public access at The Open.
The town’s sailing club was sent a letter from Angus Council outlining access restrictions before, during and after The Open 2018, which takes place in the town between July 19 – 22.
Despite the prestigious golf competition lasting only four days, committee members say the letter suggests there will be no public access at the sailing club compound from May 7 until August 31 — something the council has now denied.
The local authority admitted the plans were faulty and are in the process of redrawing plans to be sent again.
The original correspondence says an area to the south and east of Carnoustie Links Hotel and golf centre, a car park, tennis court and sections of “core paths” will also be affected.
Club committee member Michael Goss said it would “devastate” the summer sailing season and is calling for clarity over the matter.
“If we don’t have access we cannot sail,” he said.
The letter came with a map illustrating what restrictions will be in place, which encompasses the piers the group sail from. It also includes a pier they sometimes need to use in the event of a high tide.
Michael added: “We need to know that we can get there whatever the weather, which can change very rapidly so there is a safety concern here as well.
“What this picture shows to me is that we cannot sail. I do not see why they would need that part closed off anyway.”
Carnoustie Golf Links will face shorter restrictions — from July 2 until August 6.
“It’s interesting that we’re much worse off than the golfers” Michael said.
“These restrictions are overkill.”
He added that when The Open was last hosted in the town they did not face a situation like this:
“In 2007 we were sailing during the Open itself so it can be done,” he explained.
But an Angus Council spokesman insisted the group will still have access despite what the map appears to show.
He said: “We are currently in consultation on the relevant statutory notices to ensure public safety. That responsibility extends to everyone involved in the preparation, delivery and deconstruction phases of the event, as well as to the spectators who will attend and the wider community.
“The sailing club’s access rights will not be affected and there will be public access to the beach.
“The Open will draw in around 200,000 people to the site area. Hundreds of heavy vehicles will be accessing the site and extended area as the world-wide media compound is constructed, spectator stands and scoreboards are erected and the massive hospitality tents and wider tented village take shape.
“Members of the public will continue to have access to the beach front. Existing cycle and foot paths will be affected by the proposed restrictions, but alternative routes will be put in place to avoid construction zones and vehicular traffic areas and ensure safe passage for people and animals.
“During the practice days and tournament itself there may be restrictions to the Barry slipway. If required, any other impact on sailing or club activities will be negotiated directly with the sailing club.”
