Two applications for wind farms in Sutherland have been refused by Scottish Ministers, it has been announced.

Ministers rejected plans for a 22-turbine wind farm at Sallachy and Duchally estate.

In addition, proposals for a 23-turbine wind farm at Glencassley Estate by Lairg were also refused.

It was decided the Sallachy wind farm would have an 'unacceptable impact' on the Assynt – Colgach National Scenic Area (NSA) and the Reay-Cassley wild land area.

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Ministers debating the Glencassley application concluded there too would be an 'unacceptable impact' on the Reay-Cassley wild land area.

Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: "The Scottish Government's policy on wind farms strikes a careful balance between maximising Scotland's huge green energy potential and protecting some of our most scenic landscape and wild land area.

"I have considered these applications fully and recognise the efforts made by the applicants to mitigate the potential impacts of the Developments.

"However I have refused permission as the proposals would still have significant and unacceptable landscape and visual impacts in the local areas and these are not outweighed by any wider policy benefit."

(LM/CD)