Plans to extend the 17th century centrepiece of Donald Trump’s north-east golf resort will go before local councillors next week.
The Trump Organisation has lodged plans to extend its five-star hotel, MacLeod House, to include a luxury ballroom and banquet hall plus six additional hotel rooms.
Other additions to the B-listed building next to the Trump International Golf Links include an outdoor terrace, gym, additional kitchen facilities and a car park.
Aberdeenshire Council’s Formartine area committee has been advised by planners to approve the plans, subject to several conditions.
Last night the Trump Organisation said the extension would bring it a step closer to the realisation of Mr Trump’s full vision for the Menie Estate.
Executive vice-president of the Trump Organisation, George Sorial, said: “We plan on building a luxurious five-star ballroom and catering facility on the back of MacLeod House.
“It will be sympathetic to the existing style. All the designs that we put in place were sympathetic to what was already there, it will blend in seamlessly.
“It would be a significant asset to the setting and the north-east. This next phase of development is the beginning of what we think of as our original aspirations.”
MacLeod House currently boasts 19 bedrooms.
Stephen Archer, director of infrastructure services for the council, said the additional bed spaces and capacity for corporate events and conferences would be welcome additions to the Energetica Corridor.
“The extension is required to provide accommodation for more guests and meet the demand for a larger function space to hold events such as weddings, conferences, trade shows, etc,” he said.
He said the main planning issues included the appropriateness of the scale and design of the extension and its position in the landscape.
“MacLeod House sits in a prominent position within its grounds, but is secluded in the wider landscape as it sits slightly lower than the main access way and the surrounding landscape.
“In addition, the development will have a minimal impact on the surrounding landscape due to the topography and mature gardens.”
The proposal has attracted 10 objections.
Alice Dennis of neighbouring Pettens Farm, Balmedie, said: “This is a quiet beautiful part of the countryside and I feel such a large building is out of keeping with this character and the environment around here.”