Natural defence against Cairngorms housing plan

RED squirrels and capercaillie could block plans to build houses in a village in the Cairngorms National Park.

Davall Developments has earmarked a site in a wooded area of Boat of Garten for 72 houses, including 32 affordable homes.

But planning officials are recommending the national park authority refuses permission when it discusses the application on 7 January.

They say the development would have an unacceptable impact on populations of red squirrel and capercaillie in the woods. Objectors include Scottish Natural Heritage, RSPB, the Scottish Campaign for National Parks, Buglife and the Badenoch and Strathspey Conservation Group.