Out of bounds

Your article about the Renaissance Club's desire to extend its golf course at Archerfield by adding three holes (your report, 5 March) did not mention that this extension will mostly be positioned in a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

It would occupy part of the largest area of sand dunes in the Lothians, a wilderness area with important wildlife and botanical interest. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has issued a strongly worded rejection of the environmental impact report prepared for Renaissance. SNH, the local community council and the Dirleton Village Association take the view that the actions proposed to mitigate against the impacts of golf in this area are inadequate.

East Lothian's economy benefits from tourism. Some visitors come to enjoy the countryside, and others to play golf. Renaissance has designed and built a splendid course but seeks to enhance it by adding a links element. This willdetract from an outstanding countryside area whose value is recognised by its SSSI status. Within a small radius from Archerfield there are several opportunities to play golf on traditional links courses. The same cannot be said about experiencing valuable wilderness areas. A balance between golf and countryside appeal for tourism has to be struck. I believe that the countryside is a clear winner in this case.

BILL NIMMO

Dirleton

East Lothian