An American entrepreneur has revealed he is considering building a “world class” new golf course in Sutherland.
Todd Warnock is leading proposals for a 18-hole links on land at Coul near Embo.
The plans are at an early stage with environmental impacts on the area still being assessed.
Chicago-based businessman Mr Warnock already owns the Links House Hotel in nearby Dornoch.
He is also involved in plans to turn the closed Dornoch courthouse into an Andrew Carnegie-themed visitor attraction.
Mr Warnock is working with fellow Chicago businessman and golf course developer Michael Keiser and the landowners at Coul on the golf course project.
Mr Warnock said: “The group has conducted initial discussions with Highland Council and Scottish Natural Heritage and has agreed to launch an assessment of the economic and environmental issues related to the proposed project.
“Highlands and Islands Enterprise is helping to facilitate discussions.”
He added: “At this point no conclusions whatsoever have been drawn in respect of the potential project. The group plans to spend several months in feasibility mode, during which there will be a process of public consultation.”
The area is already home to the prestigious Royal Dornoch Golf Club, about three miles to the south of the Coul site.
Royal Dornoch has said it is aware of the plans and would welcome another course in the area.