A major row has been raging in the northeast of Scotland in recent weeks, over a huge development, planned for the Balmedie estate in Aberdeenshire.
US billionaire, Donald Trump (whose ancestors are from the village of Tong, barely 4 miles outside Stornoway), has proposed to develop an area of dunes along the east coast with a golf course, hotels and housing, worth a billion pounds. A committee of Aberdeenshire Council had voted to reject the scheme, on the casting ballot of its chairman. He came in for a storm of criticism, partially played out in my daily paper, the Press and Journal (which is based in Aberdeen).
The Scottish Government, headed by local MSP Alex Salmond (sic!) has now waded into the debate. Meanwhile, the above-mentioned committee chairman has been sacked by a council meeting on 26 votes to 10, with 29 abstentions. The decision by the committee stands, however.
Environmentalists are opposed to the developments, as are some local groups. The Balmedie estate incorporates unique duneland areas.
Accusations have flown about people being "leaned on" by the Trump Organisation, an allegation denied by those implicated. Local business leaders have said that the rejection seriously affected the attractiveness of Aberdeenshire for business; the sacked committee chairman said that the whole process to date seriously undermined the integrity of the planning process.
Although this does not affect me, and only marginally interests me, I do flag it up as big business appears to have more than a normal influence, and planning rules are cast aside for the lure of £££'s.
Project aside, will his ego fit? LOL
ReplyDeleteLisa
Unfortunately, Trump usually gets what Trump wants. I think he's an egotistical jerk and another instance of "all that glitters is not gold." Linda in WA
ReplyDeleteThe Donald is everywhere...he makes his mark at many places around the world...have a great day.
ReplyDeleteJoyce
What a shame ...love Jan xx
ReplyDeleteBut, it's such beautiful area. What a shame to have it developed. Gorgeous shot.
ReplyDeleteI don't think he should touch that beautiful area. Although, I will admit, he did build a gorgeous golf resort here that is fairly unobtrusive.
ReplyDeletePam
It seems a pity to spoil the beautiful landscape with a golf course.
ReplyDeleteSandra xxxx
I do feel sorry for you if Donald Trump has moved in! Couldn't he just come back and visit Scotland? Why does he have to leave such a mark? I had absolutely no idea his forbearers were Scottish. It was all I could do to keep from bringing home a dvd today from the library on Scotland, but settled for Hal Roach, an Irish comedian. Doc said I didn't know you were so hung up on Irish comedians. I said I developed a great love for my Irish ancestors during the many years I thought I was of Irish blood. So I am still transferring my allegiance to Scotland that once went to Ireland. Everybody over here seems to have an English ancestor so we don't pay nearly so much attention to them. Gerry
ReplyDeleteTrump was here in Fresno too planning a gold course, which the city was very excited about until he wanted to tear down a neighborhood causing people to leave their homes they had lived in for over thirty years....
ReplyDeleteLinda :)