Trump's £1bn golf resort approved

Donald Trump's plans for a £1 billion golf resort in Aberdeenshire have been granted outline approval.

The proposals were rejected in controversial circumstances by Aberdeenshire Council last year.

But they were later called in by the Scottish Government and finance secretary John Swinney said there was "a significant economic and social benefit" in granting the application.

Mr Trump wants to build two championship golf courses, a five-star hotel, 950 holiday homes and 500 private houses at the site north of Aberdeen.

Mr Swinney said the application had been the subject of "widespread public interest" which prompted him to call it in for consideration.

Part of the proposed development will encroach on protected sand dunes near Balmedie, north of Aberdeen. The scheme was met with opposition from residents and environmental groups, but was supported by business chiefs.

"I am content that there has been an efficient, transparent and inclusive process, led by Scotland's Chief Reporter, which has taken account of all of the relevant issues and the views expressed before, during and after the public inquiry," Mr Swinney said.

"Having given careful consideration to the issues and arguments, I agree with the Reporters' findings and reasoning, and with their recommendation that outline planning permission should be granted, subject to the satisfactory prior conclusion of necessary legal agreements.

"The Reporters found there was significant economic and social benefit to be gained from this project, which has been a major consideration in my decision to grant outline planning permission."

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