The host of the US original version of the Apprentice, who is almost as famous for his hair as he is for his business ventures, issued a statement criticising plans for 11 wind turbines.

A consortium consisting of Vattenfall, Technip and the Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group (AREG) this week got planning permission for the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre (EOWDC) off Aberdeen Bay from Marine Scotland.

Located off Aberdeen Bay, the EOWDC is supported by renewable associations, business leaders and politicians – it is also expected to create jobs and boost investment in the area.

Mr Trump plans to open a 500 hectare world class golf course, a second 18-hole golf course, luxury hotel, holiday homes and a residential village formed within the unique setting of Menie Estate next year.

He issued a statement saying he was ‘disappointed’ about the decision and claimed he would never have gone ahead with the plans if he thought the wind turbines would be given permission.

Vattenfall UK country manager, David Hodkinson, promised the development would suit the coastline.

He said: “We would build the project with the same attention to detail in respect of environmental and community considerations as we have for our previous developments.”

Technip Offshore Wind senior vice president, Ron Cookson, said: “This is an important milestone for the EOWDC and Technip is delighted to be involved.

“It is our belief this project could, with considerable European Union support, be the catalyst which ‘kick starts’ the region’s rapid emergence as an industry-leading player in marine renewables.”

Pic: An artist’s impression of the complex

AREG chief operating officer, Morag McCorkindale, said: “As Europe’s energy capital, Aberdeen City and Shire is the ideal location for the EOWDC.

“The region has an offshore oil and gas supply chain unrivalled in the eastern hemisphere and therefore has the highest concentration of energy expertise, experience, skills and technology.

“This industrial-scale know-how is crucial to the development of marine renewables, and in the short-term particularly, offshore wind, the EOWDC is a key project to assist in the diversification of its economy.”

Luke Walsh

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