The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) is to submit an objection to the proposed 20-turbine Cairn Duhie wind farm.

The site, which is located between Grantown-on-Spey and Nairn, is 8km from the boundary of the Cairngorms National Park.

Planners had said that while it recognised the wind farm's proximity to the park and the cumulative impact it would have, it did not have a significant impact on the special qualities of the area. It added that the development would only be visible from a limited number of points within the park.


Yet members felt that the landscape and cultural integrity of the national park was at risk.

Following CNPA planning committee meeting on Friday, it was agreed that an objection to the wind farm be raised. The park's planning officers had recommended that the CNPA raised no objection.

Eleanor Mackintosh, Convener of the CNPA Planning Committee, said: "While we understand the reason behind the planning officer's recommendation there was a very strong feeling among members that – for many reasons – this was a windfarm too far, especially with the Dava Moor being an iconic route into and out of the Park."

(JP/CD)