Councillors have voted to object to contentious plans for a wind farm on the edge of the Cairngorm National Park.

The elected members took a trip on the country's highest railway line to assess the visual impact of the turbines on the Monadhliath Mountains at Kincraig.

The proposal for 31 turbines on the edge of the Cairngorms has attracted fierce opposition from environmental campaigners.

Highland councillors used the Cairngorms funicular railway on Tuesday to get an idea for how the wind farm on the Monadhliath Mountains at Kincraig may look.

The planning committee met in the afternoon to discuss the contentious plans later in the day.

Councillors went against the recommendation of planners and voted to object to the planning application. The proposal will now go before the Scottish Government.

Campaigners fear the large wind farm could be "devastating" to the wild land around the national park area and is a "step too far".

They staged a protest against the plans the last time councillors met to discuss them on December 20.

Campaigner Chris Townsend said: "After months of tireless campaigning and securing large scale public support, we’re pleased that the Highland Council area planning committee has objected to the Allt Duine wind farm proposal.

"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."

IN DETAIL

• Campaigners stage protest against 'devastating' wind farm