Hotel and golf courses approved

A new hotel and two golf courses near Inverness have been given the go-ahead by councillors.

The proposal for Castle Stuart, Dalcross, was approved by Highland Council's planning development Europe and tourism committee on Friday.

Two 18-hole golf courses, a driving range, clubhouse and a 57-bedroom hotel are included in the plan.

Applicants Cornerstone Golf Development International are behind several championship golf courses in the USA.

Twenty-eight apartments, a spa and leisure complex and 120 timeshare units and conversion of Balnaglack Farmhouse to offices are also proposed for the 176 hectare site.

Work on the golf course is expected to be completed by 2012.

The committee considered objections from seven local residents.

Director of planning and development, John Rennilson, recommended approval, subject to 57 planning conditions.

He said: "I am satisfied that, given the comprehensive and rigorous assessment of the proposal, the development should be delivered in a satisfactory manner."