A controversial windfarm proposal that would see turbines located just 400 yards from a the Cairngorms National Park boundary has been blocked by Highland Council planners.

The installation at Allt Duine in the Monadhliath Mountains proposed by RWE nPower Renewables would be too close to the national park and have a detrimental effect on the landscape, the planning committee agreed in a vote by nine to three.

Such news may delight many who like to head with their backpacks to the area and go walking, or in their ski pants at this time of year and would like to enjoy the slopes of Cairn Gorm without 31 turbines in view.

The decision may be appealed by RWE, which would mean the issue remains alive, but Save the Monadhliath Mountains pressure group spokesman Chris Townsend welcomed the idea of a public enquiry over the issue as the best way to properly assess the issue.

He added: "Despite today's formal objection, this is only the beginning of a long process and we will carry on working with our membership to protect this area of unspoilt natural beauty."