Judge temporarily halts Trump’s East Potomac golf course redevelopment plan

Donald Trump plans to close Washington DC’s East Potomac Golf Links for 15 months from November to carry out a major renovation, describing the 106-year-old public course as unsafe and run-down. The proposal has prompted a legal dispute with preservation groups and golfers, and a federal judge has temporarily halted redevelopment, leaving the course’s future and its role in local life uncertain.

The course is about two miles south of the White House and is one of three public courses run by the National Park Service in the capital. The lawsuit seeks to stop the work, which included tree removal before the administration gave notice to the court and plaintiffs; the judge’s order lasts at least until 26 October. Regular players say the course offers affordable golf close to the city: one 70-year-old golfer pays $29 for 18 holes, while others fear a redesign could undermine its accessible, community feel.