The Site and Masterplan
The site for this project is on land between Fraserburgh and Inverallochy, at the easternmost end of Fraserburgh Bay. The site is known as Land at Mains of Cairnbulg.
The Site - As Existing
The main areas of the proposed site are farm grazing land or complex dunes with challenging terrain, and as such there are very few paths across much of the landscape. There are designated Core Paths to the east and west, but these are currently unconnected.
The disused railway provides a route for pedestrians and cyclists across the site, however, it is currently not managed. There are no pedestrian crossing over the Water of Philorth, except for a dangerous section of grass verge alongside the B9033. The dismantled Bridge of Philorth already has planning permission to be rebuilt as a pedestrian link.
There are existing bus stops along the B9033 main road, at the burial ground and at the Inverallochy junction. The burial ground itself has a dedicated car park.
The Masterplan
We want the landscape in and around the new golf course to be open and accessible to all. Alongside the golfers, we want walkers and their dogs, runners, swimmers, cyclists to all feel welcome.
We are committed to protecting the proposed Inverallochy to Fraserburgh active travel link along the former disused railway, and incorporating this as a key part of our designs. No vehicles will regularly use this route except occasionally by the golf course maintenance staff.
Our ideas include exploring options for new pedestrian crossings over the Water of Philorth, shared by golfers and general members of the public. Although some of the current Local Nature Reserve paths may be affected, we would offset this by creating many more places to explore, with improved paths, circular routes and new trails in the dunes system east of the Waters of Philorth, which is currently difficult to access.
As well as encouraging activities like surfing, wild swimming, or trail running, we are excited about the possibilities of using the landscape to celebrate local cultural and natural heritage. For example: art and sculpture trails, birdwatching, and telling the story of the area through heritage interpretation.
We also want to find ways we can help improve access to this beautiful place for those less physically able.
Architecture
New buildings are needed to support the operation of the golf course, including food and beverage, overnight accommodation, retail and offices.
Our vision is to create the atmosphere of a ‘village’ or steading of multiple smaller buildings arranged around courtyards and gardens.
We want golfers and non-golfers to mingle in as many places as possible. This will not be an exclusive resort that is only open to players.
A provisional brief for the buildings includes:
A warm welcome for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Cafe/restaurant.
Public bar and lounge.
Shop. This will be more than just a space for golf merchandise, but somewhere that celebrates local crafts and produce.
Low-scale accommodation of approximately 30 rooms.
Changing rooms and storage areas for golfers.
Staff offices.
Substantial sheltered outside areas spread across courtyards, terraces and gardens. We hope these spaces may allow community events like farmer’s markets and craft fairs.
Integration of the railway walking/cycling route into the heart of the public space.
Dedicated parking.
Green-keeping and staff buildings (in a separate location)
Architecture
Our design ideas for the clubhouse village draw inspiration from traditional rural buildings:
Historic coastal settlements like Inverallochy and Cairnbulg: Tightly-knit homes with narrow gables facing the sea, with semi-enclosed gardens.
Lighthouses: Dispersed clusters of buildings in isolated coast locations, often surrounded by garden walls to shelter from the weather.
Steadings and other agricultural buildings: Clusters of eclectic forms arranged around permeable courtyards.
The architecture will play on these themes but in a modern way. We will emphasise the use of natural and locally-sourced materials, and exceptional craftsmanship.
