The wind energy firm, a subsidiary of NTR, teamed up with al-Fayed early last year after he selected the company as the preferred developer for an operation that would generate 46MW of electricity.

However last week the Highland Council rejected the plans, though they had been approved just two months ago by its own planning, development, Europe and tourism committee.

Airtricity said it was "disappointed" by the decision and might consider an appeal. JM