A public debate on Donald Trump’s proposed £1bn golf resort in Aberdeenshire attracted about 200 people, reports BBC Scotland. The US billionaire wants to build “the world’s greatest golf course” at the Menie estate, north of Aberdeen.
Mr Trump spoke via a recorded video, before objections and statements in support of the development were heard. Council officers have recommended backing the plans, which include a 450-bedroom hotel. The plans also include almost 1,000 holiday homes and about 500 private houses.
The sand dunes at the proposed site are an environmentally-sensitive area.
One of the objectors was Michael Foote, who lives on the Menie estate. He said, “It’s a means to an end, it’s a way of presenting luxury housing to the international market, it’s got nothing to do with golf, it’s the teaser.”
The Trump Organisation’s head of international development, George Sorial, told BBC Scotland that something “world class” was needed as Scotland did not need another good or average golf course. He said development and architecture meant the site was the best option.
The meeting was the latest stage in the planning process and comes after Aberdeenshire councillors deferred their decision on the matter.
Trump Golf Scotland www.trumpgolfscotland.com