Aberdeenshire council has been accused of donating land to Donald Trump to support his golf resort plans as an alternative to making the land available for affordable housing.

Lib Dem councillor Paul Johnston said it could be interpreted as a 'sweetener' as part of the planning process for the £1bn plans for the Menie Estate.

The Aberdeenshire councillor said: "This needs transparency. If we use that valuable land we would also be losing job opportunities."

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It is normal practice for a company building a significant development to be required to provide some low-cost, affordable housing. The alternative land for this is being made available by the council at Balmedie.

The Trump organisation and the council have defended the deal.

The council has issued a statement saying a good package had been secured - in accordance with adopted policies - which would benefit the local people in Balmedie if the planning application was eventually approved.

A spokesperson for Trump said he proposed land for affordable housing was identified by the council, and described as "absurd" any suggestion it was being given some sort of inducement.

The Plans for the Trump golf resort are currently the subject of a public inquiry.

(GK/JM)