AN energy firm is taking its fight to build a wind farm in the Borders to the Scottish Government.

Plans to erect 12 turbines on Harwood Estate near Hawick divided the local community.

A total of 54 letters of objection were tabled along with 30 submissions of support during the planning process.

But all six community councils in the area - Southdean, Upper Teviotdale, Hobkirk, Newcastleton, Denholm and Hawick - were against the proposals.

Despite Scottish Borders Council's planning officers recommending approval of the application, the local authority's committee members voted unanimously in November to reject the proposed development.

Councillors believed the seven 149.9 metre-high turbines and five to stand at 130-metres high would have an adverse impact on the landscape as well as having an impact on on nearby historical sites.

Leeds-based Energiekontor Ltd has now submitted an appeal with the Scottish Government's Planning and Environmental Appeals Division.

The appeal will be considered over the coming months.