Aberdeenshire Council is pushing ahead with an £80m golf development supported by Jack Nicklaus.

Councillors originally backed the proposal by the famous American golfer to build a course and 90 homes near Stonehaven in April.

But they were forced to consider the plans for a second time on Thursday after judges decided the developer does not need to honour an agreement to pay into the council's transport fund.

Councillors voted 38 to 14 in favour of the scheme, which planning officials raised objections to.

They were concerned that the the FM Group's proposals would damage the 140-year-old Slicewells Wood near Stonehaven.

But the developer says the scheme will generate £95m for the Scottish economy and create 200 jobs.

Jack Nicklaus, nicknamed the Golden Bear, is a retired professional golfer widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, winning a total of 18 career major championships.

Last year, Nicklaus said: "Aberdeenshire is a beautiful area and this site is particularly special. I have visited on a number of occasions and I think Ury Estate provides us all the components to create a memorable golf experience.

"I think this golf course can only enhance the storied golf heritage long associated with this beautiful country and the passionate Scottish golf fans.

"We hope it can be a source of pride for the people in and around Stonehaven and the Aberdeen region."