Donald Trump has been granted permission to build a wall. Not in Mexico, but on the west coast of Ireland.

The US President had sought approval for a lengthy sea barrier to protect his golf course at Doonbeg in County Clare from Atlantic storms.

The local authority has told Trump International Golf Links (TGIL) that it can construct two sea defences of 630 metres and 260 metres in length.

The coastal erosion management scheme involves the erection of man-made dunes along a 1km stretch of the coastline.

Image: A picturesque view over Mr Trump's County Clare course

Environmental groups had raised numerous objections, claiming the wall could damage protected wildlife habitats in the region.


Protesters were quick to highlight the irony of a president, who is sceptical about climate change, building a wall in an attempt to manage coastal erosion.

The original application cited global warming and rising seas as justification for the wall.

Trump Hotels estimates that between 15 and 20 metres of dune facing the edge of the golf course has eroded in the last 15 years.

In a statement, the local authority said: "Clare County Council has today issued a decision to grant permission for the development of coastal erosion management works at, and adjacent to, Carrowmore Dunes, White Strand, Doughmore Bay and Trump International Golf Links and Hotel, Doonbeg, County Clare."

Image: President Trump is applauded in Washington DC after getting tax cuts passed through Congress

Under the Planning Act, the ruling may be subject to a first or third party appeal within a four-week period.

Joe Russell, general manager of Trump Doonbeg, said: "This decision demonstrates the Council's commitment to support local business and protect the economic future of the region.

"Trump Doonbeg will continue to engage with all stakeholders throughout the construction process."

Controversial plans for a 4.5 metre rock wall, running 2.8km along the beach, were scaled back last year.