On 27th November 2006, Trump International Golf Links Scotland Limited (TIGLS) applied to Aberdeenshire Council for outline planning permission for a golf resort on land at Menie House, Balmedie, Aberdeen. The proposal (subsequently amended) was originally for a golf resort comprising two 18-hole courses, a clubhouse and ancillary facilities, a 450-room hotel with conference centre and spa, 950 holiday apartments 36 ‘golf villas’, 500 houses, accommodation for 400 staff, road access and parking.

 

Part of the golf resort was to be located within the spectacular sand dune system at Menie Links including one third of Foveran Links Site of Special Scientific Interest. This highly sensitive and dynamic dune ecosystem is recognised as one of the top five dune habitats in the whole of the UK.

 

The very high nature conservation value of this coastline is recognised at both a European (five priority European habitats are present) and national level (‘coastal sand dunes’ are listed as a priority habitat in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan). Indeed, the whole stretch of coastline hosts a rich assemblage of specially adapted higher and lower plants and other wildlife including a diverse breeding bird community and otters.

 

Of even greater concern, the location of one of the golf courses would result in the destruction of over a third of Foveran Links Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which is important nationally for both its biological and geological features.

 

Even TIGLS recognise the unique nature of Foveran Links SSSI, ironically declaring that the dramatic dune topography make it a key feature in the design of the championship golf course. They have stated on numerous occasions that a course which avoided the SSSI would not achieve the applicant’s ‘ambitions.’ The development could still go ahead without including the SSSI if Mr Trump chose to amend the application.