MEMBERS of the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) will submit an objection to a 20-turbine wind farm proposed close to the park's boundary, despite advice that it would not have a significant impact on the area.

The proposed Cairn Duhie wind farm between Grantown-on-Spey and Nairn is about 8km from the national park. A planning officer had concluded the wind farm did not have a significant impact on the special qualities of the park, however planning committee members felt the landscape setting and the cultural integrity of the park were at risk.

Eleanor Mackintosh, the 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 wind farm too far."

A spokesman for the Scottish Government said ministers could not comment on the proposal as they "will have a decision-making role in the proposal in due course".