Homes plan threatens capercaillie, CNPA officials say

Concerns for capercaillie and red squirrels have been listed among reasons for refusing plans for 72 homes at woodland in Boat of Garten.

The Cairngorms National Park Authority's planning committee had deferred making a decision on Davall Development's proposals in January.

The firm was asked to come back with measures to reduce the project's impact on natural habitats.

Park officials said the revised plans still posed a threat to rare wildlife.

They have recommended that the planning committee refuses the application at their meeting next Friday.

In a report, park planning officers said they were aware of the strength of feeling in Boat of Garten about the need for more affordable housing.

If the park board follows their recommendation to throw out the housing plans, the officials said they would meet to come up with alternative plans to meet the village's need for new homes.