The latest phase of Donald Trump’s north-east golf resort has been recommended for approval by local authority planners.
Members of Aberdeenshire Council’s Formartine area committee have been asked to support the businessman’s proposals for a golf course maintenance unit, which will include workers’ accommodation and a mechanics’ workshop.
A total of 21 objections have been lodged against the plans, which is the latest stage in the £750million luxury development he is creating at the Menie Estate, near Balmedie.
They included concerns about wildlife, drainage, the use of chemicals at the site, the hours it would be used at and its close location to a neighbouring property.
Planning officials have advised that Mr Trump should be granted planning permission, however, subject to seven conditions being met – including restrictions on the times that noisy work can be carried out.
Mr Trump’s longstanding critic, Michael Forbes, was the first to lodge his opposition to the proposed block, which will look directly over his Mill of Menie home.
David Milne, of Hermit Point, soon followed.
Both men have become central figures in the campaign to block the scheme after the businessman won permission to add their homes, plus another two neighbouring properties which he does not own, to his resort plans.
The proposed workers’ accommodation will include a mess, toilets, showers, offices, kitchen and reception area.
Two sheds – a small one to store cutting equipment and vehicles, and a larger building for machinery, storage and an area for mixing of sand and compost – are also planned.
The mechanics’ workshop will include an office and paint shop.
In a report to go before the Formartine councillors, who meet at Ellon on Tuesday, planning official Jane White says the proposal is “acceptable”.
She adds: “Given the distance, just under 200m (218 yards), to the nearest property it is not considered that there will be any loss of amenity.
“Issues regarding noise, water supply and drainage have all been assessed and found to be satisfactory.”
Work is now well under way on the championship course at Menie, which Mr Trump hopes will one day host golf’s Open Championship.
The course is expected to open in 2012, with designs for the clubhouse now being finalised.
The masterplan to build two golf courses, a £250million hotel, 950 holiday homes and 500 houses has already been backed by Aberdeenshire Council.
