"What has really irked me about the Trump project, however, is the perception that the development has been the only one on the table in Scotland over the past few years. That's not the case."

Martin Dempster is bothered by the hype surrounding The Donald's Aberdeen course.

What has really irked me about the Trump project, however, is the perception that the development has been the only one on the table in Scotland over the past few years. That's not the case. Courses continue to spring up around the country, with each deserving to be judged on its own merits.

Marc Parsinen and Gil Hanse, for example, have created Castle Stuart, a gem of a course on the Moray coast just along from Inverness. That has been earning deserved rave reviews since it opened earlier this year. In my opinion, it is as good, if not better, than Kingsbarns, where Parsinen was also involved with Kyle Phillips.

And what about Machrihanish Dunes? David McLay Kidd, who, incidentally is also working on the gWest project next to Gleneagles, designed this one and, by all accounts, it is going to be popular with those who head down the Mull of Kintyre every year to savour its established neighbour.

Recently, there have been a couple of very enjoyable GolfClubAtlas.com threads on Castle Stuart (here and here).

Comments

[Mr. Doubtful]

The problem is Trump is a blow hard who has a history of building crappy American style courses using waterfalls as frequent decor. If he would hire Gil Hanse or Kyle Phillips instead of Tom Fazio or Rees Jones then his intention might be seen. Currently the way the plan looks, given with his history, its going to be another Trump National.

[chico]

I'm with you Mr D.If he tries to build a links and then puts a fountain anywhere within a mile of the 18th green then he should be taken outside and shot!

[JAD]

Better than Kingsbarns? I disagree. I guess it depends who you ask. I love the detail and expanded fairway shaping at Castle Stuart, but I cant get over the fact that most bunkers are completly out of play and there were some missed opportunities for even more spectacular views.

Kingsbarnes weekness however, is the first half of the back nine. Could be a wash, but Kingsbarns left a greater impression on me.