News Summary
Donald Trump prepares for his four-day visit to Scotland, meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer amidst local criticism of his business practices. In Balmedie, residents express ongoing resistance to Trump’s golf resort, citing unfulfilled promises and negative community impacts. Despite attempts to expand his presence, sentiments of dissatisfaction and tension remain prominent, particularly as protests are anticipated during his visit.
Balmedie, Scotland – Critical Residents Prepare for Donald Trump’s Upcoming Visit
Donald Trump is scheduled to return to Scotland for a four-day visit starting July 25, 2025. During his stay, he will visit his golf resorts located in Turnberry and Balmedie. One of the key events planned is a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Balmedie on July 28, where discussions are expected to focus on a recent U.S.-U.K. trade agreement.
Local Resistance and Opposition to Trump’s Business Practices
In Balmedie, residents remain highly critical of Trump’s business activities and his relationships with local communities. Michael Forbes, a retired quarry worker and long-standing resident, has been outspoken about his negative view of Trump, describing him as an undesirable neighbor and asserting that the land will never belong to him. Forbes and other families have actively resisted Trump’s attempts to purchase their properties for nearly two decades, alleging that Trump employed aggressive and bullying tactics, a claim denied by Trump himself.
The local community expresses frustration over what they perceive as unfulfilled promises associated with Trump’s golf project. Originally, Trump pledged an investment of $1.5 billion into the development. However, only around $120 million has been invested to date. Despite ambitious promises of creating 1,000 permanent jobs and thousands of temporary construction positions, only 84 jobs have materialized. Projects that included a 450-room luxury hotel and hundreds of homes have been scaled back significantly, with only a 19-room boutique hotel and a small clubhouse completed.
Financial Performance and Environmental Impact
The golf course has faced ongoing financial difficulties, registering a loss of $1.9 million in 2023. This marks the 11th consecutive year of losses since Trump acquired the land in 2006. Residents note that the course is often underutilized, with fairways rarely more than half full—even during summer months. Environmental concerns have overshadowed development ambitions, especially after the dunes where the golf course sits lost their status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 2020, according to Nature Scot.
Community Sentiments and Cultural Changes
While some residents recognize improvements in the aesthetic appeal of the dunes, others remain skeptical of Trump’s influence. Trump plans to open a new 18-hole course at Balmedie, dedicated to his mother, continuing efforts to expand his presence in the area. Nevertheless, opposition protests organized by groups like the Stop Trump Coalition are anticipated during his visit. Concerns include potential vandalism and unrest related to Trump’s business history and political views.
History of Disputes and Local Relations
Historical interactions between Trump and local residents have been marked by conflicts. Notably, allegations include an incident where workers sabotaged a water pipe on Forbes’ property, leaving his family without clean water for five years. David Milne, another local resident, has refused offers to sell his land, citing below-market offers and adverse impacts on his property views. Such disputes reflect ongoing tensions surrounding land rights and Trump’s development plans.
Broader Context and Community Concerns
Since the opening of the golf course in 2012, the community’s critique of Trump’s developments has grown. Many locals consider the project a disappointment due to unmet promises of development and economic growth. Former local officials have expressed regret about supporting Trump’s initiatives, citing environmental issues. Notably, the dunes used for golf lost their protected status in 2020, raising ecological worries. Trump has also been involved in legal disputes, notably opposing a wind farm built nearby, further fueling opposition to his projects.
Public Opinion and Political Climate
Public sentiment in Scotland toward Trump remains largely unfavorable. Recent surveys show that roughly 70% of Scots view Trump negatively, making his reputation abroad less favorable than in other parts of the UK. This widespread disapproval adds complexity to his visit, which is expected to attract protests and widespread media attention.
Overall, residents in Balmedie prepare for Trump’s visit amid ongoing concerns about his business practices, environmental impacts, and community relations, reflecting a complex and often contentious relationship that has persisted over the years.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Trump’s Visit to Scotland Sparks Protests and Trade Talks
Donald Trump Arrives for Visit in Aberdeen, Scotland
Trump Faces Protests During Scottish Golf Resort Visit
Trump’s Controversial Golf Trip to Scotland Sparks Protests
Trump’s Controversial Visit to Scotland Sparks Protests
Golfers Head to Cooler Destinations as Summer Ends
Scotland Protests Erupt as Trump Visits Golf Courses
Global Golf Tourism Market Projected to Grow Significantly
Protests Expected in Scotland During Trump’s Private Visit
Trump’s Scotland Visit Sparks Diplomatic Controversy
Additional Resources
- USA Today: Trump’s Scotland Golf Resort
- Wikipedia: Donald Trump
- CBS News: Trump’s Scotland Golf Course
- Google Search: Trump golf course Scotland
- The New York Times: Trump Visit to Scotland
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Trade Agreement
- The Washington Post: Trump and Starmer in Scotland
- Google News: Trump visit Scotland
- Press Democrat: Trump’s Trip to Scotland
- Google Scholar: Trump golf course Scotland
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
