Donald Trump’s plans for a £1bn golf resort in Aberdeenshire have finally been approved by the Scottish Government.

The US tycoon submitted the plans for Trump International Golf Links Scotland – to be based on the Menie Estate in Balmedie – in November 2006, only to be rejected by Aberdeenshire Council a year later. The plans were called in by the Scottish Government in December 2007.

Cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth, John Swinney, said: “The Scottish Government called this application in for determination last December as it raised issues of importance that required consideration at a national level. 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.

“The reporters found that 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 project had received opposition from several heritage and environmental groups, including Scottish National Heritage and RSPB Scotland, over concerns about the resort’s effect on the area.

The proposal includes two 18-hole courses, a clubhouse, a caddyshack, a short-game practice area and driving range, a 450-room hotel with conference centre and a spa, 950 holiday apartments, 36 golf villas, 500 houses for sale and accommodation for more than 400 staff.

Donald Trump said: “We are greatly honoured by the positive decision and believe that the people of Scotland will be extremely happy with the final product. It will be a tremendous asset and source of pride for both Aberdeenshire and Scotland for many generations.”