Donald Trump compulsory purchase bids 'not an option'

Mr Trump has said the project is likely to cost about £750m

Families worried they could lose their homes to the Donald Trump golf development have expressed "relief" at claims they will not be forced out.

US tycoon Mr Trump hopes to build the "world's greatest golf resort" at Menie, north of Aberdeen.

The Trump Organisation said in a statement it had "no interest" in compulsory purchase orders.

Local objector David Milne said: "There is an element of relief to be gained from the statement."

Work on Mr Trump's golf course development started in July last year.

Five homeowners feared they could eventually be evicted as the billionaire looked to secure more land.

The Trump Organisation said: "Through a combination of landscaping and planting, the preliminary work to eliminate the negative visual impact of the poorly maintained and unkempt properties that border our development has completely succeeded."

'Direct request'

An Aberdeenshire Council spokesman said: "We can confirm there are no live requests for the use of compulsory purchase orders at the Menie Estate.

"Aberdeenshire Council would only consider using CPOs following a direct request to do so by an applicant. Such a request would be a matter for discussion by the full council."

Mr Milne vowed to continued with protests, led by the Tripping Up Trump campaign group.

Mr Trump hopes to build the "world's greatest golf resort" at Menie, north of Aberdeen.

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

As well as a championship golf course, the development includes a 450-room hotel, 950 holiday apartments and 500 residential homes.