Trump golf project set to begin

Mr Trump wants to build the 'world's greatest' golf resort

Work on Donald Trump's £1bn golf project in Aberdeenshire is set to begin on Wednesday after councillors accepted a planning application.

Aberdeenshire's Formartine Committee accepted the application for work including grass planting at the dunes at Menie, north of Aberdeen.

US billionaire Mr Trump said they were pleased work could start ahead of schedule.

He said they would build the "greatest golf course in history".

Mr Trump added: "I want to thank Aberdeenshire Council, the business community and the residents of Aberdeenshire for their ongoing support."

Legal advice

The Tripping Up Trump campaign group said it would be taking legal advice over the decision.

Spokesperson Martin Glegg said: "We are disappointed but not surprised by today's decision."

The objectors had claimed the application should not be heard by the Formartine Committee on the grounds the proposal was a major development which should require a pre-hearing before being submitted to the full council.

However, Aberdeenshire Council said the application for marram grass planting at Menie would be considered as planned.

A spokesperson said the application was classed as major but it was the professional judgement of officials that the application fell within the committee's delegated authority.