Billionaire developer Donald Trump is considering ditching his £1b Scottish links golf course project in the face of environmental protests.

The US tycoon, who plans to build a golf resort including a large five-star hotel on the Menie Estate near Aberdeen, said he "had other alternatives" after the plans were attacked by birdwatchers and ecologists.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and Friends of the Earth (FOE) are concerned about the potential harm to indigenous birds and the environmental impact of building homes on the coastline.

FOE spokesman Gregor McAbery said: "It's a significant development, with around 1,000 new homes and a hotel planned in the green belt, which is contrary to Aberdeenshire's current structure plan. Trump needs to submit the appropriate documentation and not just talk his way through."

A spokeswoman for Trump Golf Scotland said: "The Trump organisation has hired the leading environmental experts and has commissioned a substantial environmental impact study. The Trump organisation is still 100% committed to the project."

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By Emily Manson

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