Mr Trump visited the sand dunes where the course would be located

The US billionaire wants to create the world's greatest golf course at the Menie estate in Aberdeenshire.

The plans include a 450-bedroom hotel, almost 1,000 holiday homes and about 500 private houses in an environmentally-sensitive area.

Aberdeenshire Council planners are recommending approval.

The Trump Organisation said it was "extremely encouraged" and "pleased" by the report and hoped for an "informed, fair and balanced decision".

Of a total of 432 letters of representation received, 105 object to the plans and 327 support the proposal.

A 28-signature petition against the proposal has also been received.

Architect appointed

Planners said the financial impact was significant and this was an occasion where the social and economic benefits were of national importance and should take precedence.

They said it was a proposal which no planner could have foreseen and such an opportunity must be grasped.

Councillors on the local Formartine Area Committee meet next week to consider granting outline permission.

A leading golf course architect has been appointed to design the development.

Proposals for the course were amended following initial objections by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

Developers said it could generate tens of millions of pounds for the local economy and secure hundreds of jobs.