Trump row replacement appointed

Peter Argyle was appointed to the post on Thursday

A new chairman has been appointed to Aberdeenshire Council's infrastructure services committee, which threw out Donald Trump's £1bn golf resort bid.

Lib Dem councillor Peter Argyle replaces Martin Ford, who was sacked from the post after he used his casting vote to reject the development.

The Aboyne, Upper Deeside and Donside member said he was looking forward to stepping into the new role.

The Trump application was called in by the Scottish Government.

Aberdeenshire Council leader Anne Robertson said: "It has obviously been a very difficult few months for the council, but today's appointment allows us to draw a line under that and look firmly to the future.

"Councillor Argyle is extremely well thought of and joins the infrastructure services committee following a period of sensible and measured chairmanship of the council's scrutiny and audit committee.

'Public confidence'

"Clearly, there are going to be challenges ahead, but I know that Peter will approach the new role with confidence."

Councillor Argyle said: "The profile of this position has been under intense scrutiny over the past few months, but I am excited about this appointment and working with the rest of the committee in the best interests of Aberdeenshire.

Martin Ford's casting vote saw the Trump plans rejected

"It is important that we now look to the future and work to rebuild public confidence in the decision-making process."

Aberdeenshire councillors previously voted 26 to 10 to unseat Cllr Ford at an emergency meeting.

Mr Ford's casting ballot - after a tied area committee vote - led to an angry reaction from many business and tourism leaders.

He said his sacking sent out the "wrong message" on the planning system's integrity.

Councillors gave overwhelming support to the Trump plans, though the decision now rests with the Scottish Government.

Ministers called in the golf resort application as it said it was of national significance and should therefore not be decided by a local council.

Holyrood's local government committee is investigating the handling of the £1bn plans.