Three years ago when American real estate developer Donald Trump announced his plan to build “the greatest golf course in history” the plan was met with objections and protests by many groups in Scotland. Trump’s proposed plan for the development of 1400 acres of seaside links land drew cries from local landowners, environmentalists and Scottish traditionalists who feared an invasion by Trump and his loud, over the top, self-promoting ways. That day may be nearing as work has started on Trump International Golf Links at the Menie Estate which sits twelve miles north of Aberdeen.
Originally, Trump’s plan was rejected by the local authorities but that would not stop Trump. He appealed to higher authorities and after much negotiation the plan was approved by Scotland’s National Government. There are still some property owners and adversaries that are trying to disrupt the development, but final approval has been granted and Trump has started work on the course. They are planting grasses and taking actions to ensure the safety of the dunes before construction of the course can begin.
Trump has a unique opportunity here. He has some of the most prized land in Scotland and will be able to shape his two courses to be true seaside links courses. Trump currently owns eight golf courses, all ballyhooed by Trump to be the “best” and the “greatest” courses. His courses have been designed by Tom Fazio, Jerry Pate, Tom Kite and one by his own design firm. Trump has made a wise move in not choosing any of those for this project. He has chosen one of the most respected firms in Europe to bring his dream to reality. The Hawtree Limited Company, course architects since 1912, have been contracted to design two championship golf courses for Trump. Hawtree has a long distinguished history of working on some of the most fabled courses: Carnoustie, Muirfield, Montrose and St. Andrews are a few. Hopefully, Trump will allow Hawtree to design the courses with a traditional links setup and not force him to design around the hotel and real estate development. The courses should come first and the development should compliment them.
After all is said and done, Trump will get his courses and his hotel and real estate development built. If he can shelve his penchant for glitter and glamour and build a tastefully designed development he’ll have a chance to win over the Scots. His project will employ hundreds of people and generate much needed revenue for the area. The Scots love a good golf course and Trump has the chance to give them two. For more information on Scotland golf breaks and golf tours of Aberdeen, visit Your Golf Travel.com.
