I have urged the SNP government to listen to local communities over a controversial proposal for a 52-turbine wind farm just outside Hawick..
The plans have now proceeded to a public inquiry after Scottish Borders councillors opposed the Teviot wind farm.
This project risks scarring our countryside and ruining the beautiful Borders landscape.
The Borders are shouldering an overly proportionate burden of renewable applications, of which the energy generation could be over and above the requirement to the national grid.
The views of the local community must be listened to and respected.
Once the public inquiry concludes, SNP ministers should reject this proposal on the basis that only strategic projects should be considered.
We all want to see our environment protected, but renewable energy projects should never be imposed on communities against their wishes.
ENDS
