OFFICIALS in the Western Isles want Donald Trump to become involved in a multimillion-pound project.
Representatives of Western Isles Council and the Stornoway Trust yesterday met George Sorial, from the Trump Organisation, about a plan to develop the landmark Lews Castle in Stornoway as a hotel and museum.
Mr Sorial said: "The site is beautif
ul and the project has great merit. There is no doubt that, with proper planning, the castle can be restored to its original magnificence and serve as the jewel of Stornoway. We look forward to reviewing the plans in greater detail."
Meanwhile, the leader of Aberdeenshire Council dismissed as "outrageous" claims that the tycoon had been offered a £5 million land-deal sweetener as part of his £1 billion golf resort plan.
Councillor Anne Robertson said: "There is absolutely no wrongdoing here."
The row flared after Paul Johnston, one of four Liberal Democrat councillors appearing at the Trump inquiry to oppose the development, accused the local authority of donating land to the Trump Organisation to help the entrepreneur's plans for the Menie estate, near Balmedie.
The land would be used to build almost 100 affordable homes for local people, as well as 52 homes that the Trump Organisation could sell.
Mr Sorial said: "The objectors' accusations impugn the professionalism of people representing both our organisation and the council. They have dealt with this with absolute integrity."
The full article contains 241 words and appears in The Scotsman newspaper.
