Trump's $1.6B Scottish golf course approved

LONDON, England (CNN) -- American property tycoon Donald Trump has won permission to build a $1.6 billion golf resort in Scotland.

The plan to build a resort featuring two golf courses, as well as a hotel and homes at Balmedie and Menie, outside Aberdeen, has provoked heated debate between business and environmental groups.

The plan was called in by the Scottish Government after an Aberdeenshire Council committee rejected it.

Trump welcomed the decision.

"We are greatly honored by the positive decision and believe that the people of Scotland will be extremely happy with the final product," he said.

"It will be a tremendous asset and source of pride for both Aberdeenshire and Scotland for many generations."

Finance Secretary John Swinney backed it after a public local inquiry. See pictures of the plans for the Trump International Golf Links resort »

"The Scottish Government called this application in for determination last December as it raised issues of importance that required consideration at a national level," Swinney said.

"As a result, I ordered a public inquiry so that we could give proper consideration to this major application which has been the subject of widespread public interest."

Swinney said he was "content that there has been an efficient, transparent and inclusive process."

"There was significant economic and social benefit to be gained from this project, which has been a major consideration in my decision to grant outline planning permission."

The proposal involves the development of a golf resort, including two 18-hole golf courses with associated clubhouse, starter's hut, caddy shack, short-game practice area and driving range, together with a 450-bedroom hotel with conference center and spa, 950 holiday apartments in four blocks, 36 golf villas, 500 houses for sale and accommodation for 400 staff.