In a letter to developers AMEC, Scottish ministers have confirmed that they are minded not to grant planning permission for the massive development.

AMEC now have 21 days in which to reply to the Government.

The Vice-Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Mr Angus Campbell, said: "This is a bitter blow for the Western Isles. An opportunity to help us revitalise our economy has been lost. However at least we now know the cost of environmental designations to the Western Isles – 400 construction jobs, 70 jobs at Arnish, 70 jobs associated directly with the windfarm, £6m per annum in community benefit, £4m in rental payments.

"The Comhairle will now engage with the Scottish Government to discuss their plans for how the economy of the Western Isles can be developed. They must make clear what their vision is for the islands. Are we to become an environmental museum? Is any development at all to be allowed in the Western Isles?

"Those who opposed this development must now come forward and outline their proposals for the regenerating the economy of the Western Isles".

Alasdair Allan, MSP for the Western Isles, said that if the reports were confirmed, he was satisfied the right decision had been made.

"It's clear that the government have indicated that they are minded to turn the application down on environmental grounds," he said.

"I have said all along that the development planned for North Lewis was on a scale and in a location that was simply unacceptable to the communities concerned.

"I am certainly pleased that the government has reached the right decision. This has been a long-running and at times divisive issue. I hope that the community can now work together to promote other renewable projects on a scale and in a location more fitting to the Western Isles.

"Many people will be relieved that a clear decision has been reached and that we are not looking at an endless Lingerbay style inquiry."