The masterplan for Donald Trump’s £1billion golf development in Aberdeenshire has been submitted to the local council.

The controversial development has been the topic of furious debate for years in the area.

The design for the entire site and the championship golf course at Menie Estate were handed in on Tuesday.

Commenting on the submission, Donald Trump said: “This is another significant step towards our goal of building the world’s greatest golf course and resort in Aberdeenshire.”

A number of residents on the Menie Estate have refused to sell their properties to Trump International – Scotland.

The actions of the residents and associated pressure groups have come in for stinging criticism from Mr Trump himself.

Last month Trump International – Scotland entered into negotiations with Aberdeenshire Council to purchase a key piece of land that is surrounded by the Menie Estate.

The Formarine Area Committee granted Trump “special purchaser” status which prevents anyone else bidding to purchase the small piece of ground.