Property tycoon-turned-TV personality Donald Trump has begun the construction of his controversial golf course resort in northern Scotland after years of delays and disputes with local residents.

Trump's plans to build the "world's greatest golf course" in the seaside city of Aberdeen stalled after environmentalists protested its development, insisting construction would damage sand dunes in a protected area. His proposal was originally rejected by Aberdeenshire Council officials before finally being approved by the national government in November 2008.

Government officials cited "significant economic and social benefit" upon their approval. The Apprentice boss was given the go-ahead by the Aberdeenshire Council to start construction, four years after proposing the project and the building work began on Thursday.

Trump tells the New York Post, "My team will (now) finally get to work and build the world's greatest golf course for Scotland and for the great game of golf. We are building on the finest piece of land I have ever seen and we will turn it into a national jewel."

The $1 billion-plus development is due to be completed in 2012.

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