Trump plans backed by Aberdeenshire officials

Donald Trump believes the project will cost about £750m

US tycoon Donald Trump has been given the backing of planning officials to start work on creating the "world's greatest golf course".

Planners in Aberdeenshire have recommended granting full permission for his championship course at Menie.

The plan goes before councillors on the Formartine area committee on Tuesday.

Contractors could begin work on the course within days if councillors give the go-ahead.

Mr Trump wants to create a championship course as well as a hotel and hundreds of holiday homes at Menie.

Some local people have refused to sell their properties to the billionaire.

Mr Trump last month vowed to cut the ribbon on his golf resort within 18 months.

He said the total cost of the project was likely to be about £750m.