Tycoon blames economic slump for decision to put off building 500 Aberdeenshire homes

US property billionaire Donald Trump has announced that his plans to build 500 homes near Aberdeen could be delayed for 'several years'.

The houses are part of a larger development at Menie Estate, near Aberdeen, which includes two golf courses and a hotel. It is understood that the golf courses will continue to be built. The 拢1bn development met with controversy when first proposed, due to concerns about the effect on local wildlife habitats, but was finally approved by Aberdeenshire council in November 2008.

The property magnate's lawyer, George Sorial, said: 鈥淭he homes could take several years. We can't help but acknowledge the slow-down in the market. We have to sell them, so we're not going to build anything until it feels right鈥�

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