10 May 2012 Last updated at 10:01 ET

Sallachy wind farm would harm wild land, SNH says

WKN AG has said its project would generate enough power for 34,000 homes

A plan for a 22-turbine wind farm in Sutherland threatens a large area of wild land, according to Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH).

The public agency has formally objected to Sallachy Estate and developer WKN AG's proposal for a site near Lairg.

SNH said the farm would impact on Assynt and Coigach National Scenic Area and important habitats.

WKN AG has said the project would generate enough electricity for 34,000 homes.

The company also said the scheme would involve inward investment of about £100m.

It is discussing with the nearby communities of Lairg, Creich and Ardgay about a package that allow them to share in the farm's profits to fund local projects.

Plans for the project have been submitted to the Scottish government.

In a statement, WKN AG said it was disappointed by SNH's opposition to the plan.

Project manager Inga Schuster said: "The project team is in contact with SNH with regard to the ecological aspects of the proposal and we are confident that we will be able to supply the requested additional information to resolve any outstanding queries."