COUNCILLORS have agreed to restrict public access to certain sections of Gullane’s golf courses during the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open.

Councillors unanimously welcomed the upcoming tournament, which will feature international stars such as Phil Mickelson, Lee Westwood, Darren Clarke and Rory McIlroy.

The tournament takes place between July 9 and July 12 and is expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors.

The decision to limit access rights was taken by councillors “in the interests of the safety and security of players and the safety of the public” during the Championship and also to permit an entrance fee to be levied on spectators during the tournament.

Councillor Jim Goodfellow told the cabinet meeting: “I want to welcome the European tour coming to Gullane congratulate council staff and organisers in the very close way they have worked with the community to ensure the least disruption to the community.” Similarly, Councillor Stuart Currie was delighted to see the “huge event” coming to the county.

He said: “We will demonstrate we are open for business and capable of holding the event.

“While it is a one-off at the moment, hopefully it is not the last time the European Tour visits East Lothian.” Councillor Willie Innes, the council leader, said golf was an important part of the county’s economy.

He added that ensuring people had a good time at the event would likely benefit the county down the line as well with people looking to come back to East Lothian.

Preparations are well under way ahead of the AAM Scottish Open, with grandstands beginning to be put in place on the Championship course, which is a composite of the No. 1 and No. 2 courses.

The refurbished clubhouse opened its doors again on Monday, after several months of work were carried out in the build-up to the Scottish Open.