The deadline for comments on the planning application is Wednesday 22 July, after which Aberdeenshire Council will begin considering the views submitted before reaching a decision.

The proposed development would see part of a new golf course extend into the Waters of Philorth, a nationally important coastal landscape valued for its sand dunes, wildlife, open access and natural heritage. For generations, it has been a place where people come to walk, enjoy nature, watch wildlife and experience one of Aberdeenshire's most special outdoor spaces.

Since the Save Philorth campaign launched, hundreds of people have signed the campaign petition and many have shared why protecting the Waters of Philorth matters to them. While that support has been incredibly encouraging, the most important action people can now take is to submit an official comment on the planning application.

Every comment received before the deadline will be considered as part of the planning process. You do not need to be a planning expert to have your say. Whether your concern is the impact on wildlife, public access, the landscape or the future of the reserve, your views matter.

If you have been meaning to comment but haven't yet done so, now is the time. Once the deadline passes, this opportunity to influence the planning process will be gone.

The Save Philorth website provides information about the planning application, the issues raised by the proposal and step-by-step guidance on how to submit your comments to Aberdeenshire Council.

Please don't leave it too late. If you want to help protect the Waters of Philorth, make sure your comments are submitted before Wednesday 22 July.

For more information and guidance on commenting on the planning application, visit www.savephilorth.co.uk/planning.