Trump critic opens new battle in row over course

A fresh row has broken out between Donald Trump and the main opponent of his plan to build “the world’s greatest golf course” in the north-east.

Michael Forbes has become the first objector to the American billionaire’s latest planning application for the Menie Estate, north of Aberdeen.

With work on the £750million development under way, Mr Trump has brought forward his application for a maintenance unit, which will include workers’ accommodation and a mechanics’ workshop.

The facility will look directly over Mr Forbes’s Mill of Menie home, which Mr Trump recently branded “a slum”.

The application now threatens to reignite the bitter row between the men.

The proposed workers’ accommodation will include a mess, toilets, showers, offices, kitchen and reception area.

There will be 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. The mechanics’ workshop will include an office and paint shop.

Mr Forbes, 57, is objecting to the complex because of its proximity to his property. He is also concerned about the chemicals that will be stored inside.

In his objection letter, he says: “We already suffer disturbance from Trump Organisation vehicles, their security personnel and Grampian Police patrols – and with this maintenance facility we will suffer far more disturbance and harassment.

“I believe that this type of industrial development should be kept well away from private homes and land. Trump has over 1,400 acres to build this on and I believe it is totally unnecessary for them to build so close to my property.

“On the original masterplan, which was passed by Scottish ministers, the maintenance facility was sited further north and would not have impinged on any private property.”

Full Story: The Press & Journal