A public meeting has unanimously backed controversial plans by theatre impresario Sir Cameron Mackintosh to help revitalise his Highland hideaway.

More than 100 local people attended the meeting in Mallaig on Monday night and showed their total support for the £750,000 harbourside scheme.

The meeting had been called by Mallaig Community Council in the wake of fears that the entertainment mogul may pull out of the project after being "deeply hurt" over claims that he was "wrecking" the village.

Sir Cameron, the man behind such hit shows as Phantom of the Opera, Cats and Les Miserables has said he will not build new marina facilities in the eye-catching style of an ancient Crannog lochside building unless he has the overwhelming support of locals. And now he has received it.

Not one person at the meeting at Mallaig High School opposed the project when asked to raise their hands and then the meeting voted unanimously in favour.

"The meeting also recorded its support for everything that Cameron has done for the village in the past," said Charlie King, vice chairman of the Mallaig Harbour Authority - which will gain new toilets and shower facilities out of the development.

"It was an overwhelming vote of support for Cameron and his plans.

"He has done a lot of good and people appreciate him.

"We hope Cameron will now take on board that he has the support of the vast majority of locals and press on with the scheme."

But it is particularly plans by the entertainment tycoon - estimated to be worth £725m, placing him second on the Sunday Times Rich List of UK music millionaires - to include a food outlet in the scheme that has upset some villagers. There are also concerns over loss of parking.

Opponents say Mallaig already has too many eateries and fear the competition.