Golf Central

Ryder Cup veteran Colin Montgomerie has given his backing to the plans of American moneyman Donald Trump to build a £1bn golf resort in Aberdeenshire, reports BBC Sport. The Scot has taken time off from trying to work his way up the European rankings and his upcoming wedding in April to comment on a venture he thinks will benefit the game in Scotland.

"I think it can only raise standards, so I encourage that investment within Scotland and within the game of golf," said Montgomerie. "I know Donald well having played many of his courses and anything he does is of top quality."

But not everyone is a fan of the entrepreneur’s proposal. Planning permission for the £1bn golf, hotel and housing development has been rejected by a single vote by Aberdeenshire Council.The planning application is now the subject of an inquiry at the Scottish Parliament since ministers took charge of it after the vote at council level.

His television show The Apprentice may be a hit across the pond, but Trump hasn’t had it all his own way with his golfing ventures over the years. In 2004, Trump National Golf Club situated just outside Los Angeles caused a stir with the locals after he tried to rename the access road Trump National Drive. The opposers vented their anger in e-mails to the city that perhaps Ego Aisle, Narcissism Lane, or "Burn Trump Drive" might be more appropriate, according to the local newspaper.