Former US President Donald Trump’s company wants to build holiday cottages and retirement homes on a 48-hectare coastal site in South Ayrshire.

The company hoped to change the council’s local development plan to accommodate the new properties, but the request was refused by the Scottish Government’s planning reporters.

Trump’s representatives are still expected to submit a planning application for the coastal retreat, according to Scotland on Sunday.

Officials from the Scottish Government’s planning and environmental appeals division (DPEA) issued their report earlier this month.

It noted that Trump International sought to build around 200 new properties including shops and a cafe, which the company said would “boost the economy and provide high quality retirement housing and holiday/leisure accommodation”.

The reporters said the proposed development was within a “sensitive landscape” and would have a “significant impact”.

The DPEA reporter stated: “I find it difficult, therefore, to reconcile the importance given to discouraging further linear development and protecting the coastal landscape, with the introduction of what would essentially be a new settlement in this location.”

Another representation from Trump International sought to change the local development plan in order to support proposals which would “enhance the status of Turnberry and Royal Troon and Open Championship venues”.

This was also rejected by planning reporters.

Sarah Malone, executive vice-president of Trump International Scotland, said the organisation remained committed to investing in its Scottish sites.

She told Scotland on Sunday: “We have not yet made a formal application to develop the site at Turnberry, but will do in due course.”