Plans to build houses on woodland near Aviemore have sparked anger in a local conservation group.
Developer Allan Munro Construction, of Aviemore, wants to build three four-bedroom homes and an access road in an area of woodland in Kincraig known as The Knoll.
The Badenoch and Strathspey Conservation Group (BSCG) claims the homes would destroy an area of natural beauty and has accused the Cairngorm National Park Authority of failing to protect the woodland.
The planning application was lodged with Highland Council last month and the Cairngorm National Park Authority has opted not to examine them at a planning meeting saying they do not raise any planning issues of significance to the aims of the park.
This decision has angered the conservation group. BSCG convener Gus Jones said: “The park planners have yet again opened the door to developers riding roughshod over community and conservation interests by their disgraceful failure to protect this outstanding natural amenity at the heart of Kincraig.
“They have not only failed to protect The Knoll as amenity land but have also failed to protect any community open space elsewhere in the settlement of Kincraig.”
The application has also attracted objections from the local community council and parent council as well as scores of members of the public.
Stuart Swan of Alvie Parent Council said: “We object to the planning application on the grounds that the area concerned is a widely used and appreciated woodland within the heart of Kincraig. In particular the neighbouring play group use the grounds extensively where the children are receiving a fantastic introduction into outdoor education.”
Kincraig & Vicinity Community Council has also objected to the application, claiming the loss of the amenity land at the heart of the village would “diminish Kincraig forever”.
A design statement by the developers states: “We believe the proposals sit comfortably within the site and minimise the impact on the woodland setting and surrounding neighbourhood.”
The park authority’s director of planning and rural development directorate, Murray Ferguson, said: “We have not called in this application and it is a matter for the Highland Council to determine.
“Our staff will work with the council on any relevant matters that arise with this application.”