Trump Inquiry Update
Week 1: 10 – 13 June
The Public Local Inquiry into the TIGLs planning application to construct a golf course and resort development at Menie Estate began on 10 June 2008 in Aberdeen at the Exhibition and Conference Centre.
Day 1
Somewhat of a media circus as the first witness, Mr Donald J Trump, joined the inquiry to give his evidence. During his three hours of evidence and cross examination we learnt that Mr Trump hasn't read the any of the environmental statement documents and even more surprising is his admission that he bought the site without visiting it. As such he wasn’t aware that part of it was a SSSI until after he'd bought it.
Day 2
The turn of the TIGLs golf course designer, Martin Hawtree. He was cross examined on the possibility of designing the course and avoiding the SSSI, Dr Hawtree was less than interested in entertaining that option. And, this is after we referred to our indicative plans which show it is entirely possible to build an 18 hole, championship, links course in this location without destroying the protected site or important areas to the south.
Day 3
Day three was marked by the unequivocal message from the TIGLs camp, their advocate announced he had received very clear instructions from Mr Trump. If Scottish Ministers are minded to grant consent that prevented development on the SSSI then they should simply issue a refusal. As far as TIGLs is concerned consent with that condition wasn't a consent they wanted.
Days 3 and 4
The remainder of the week are taken up with discussions of the economic case for the proposal. Thankfully no impacts to biodiversity, only revelations that the expected costs for TIGLs to attend the inquiry is expected to cost them around £1million.
What’s ahead
Week 2: 16 – 19 June
The turn of TIGLS habitats and species evidence closely followed by Scottish Natural Heritage. Evidence this week should reveal some crucial clues as to the scale of damage.
Week 3: 22 – 27 June
SWT and RSPB take the stand for cross examination, watch this space for further details.
Please note: the inquiry is open to the public.