The Earl and Countess of Cawdor

The Earl of Cawdor and Dowager Countess of Cawdor are proposing to develop 274 acres (100 hectares) of land at Delnies, on the outskirts of Nairn.

A statement issued on their behalf acknowledged the pair have had "recent well documented differences".

The plans include housing, parkland, a sports centre and an arts centre, which could support the Nairn Jazz Festival.

Angelika Cawdor said their proposals would be submitted to Highland Council soon.

She said: "These plans are intended to enhance Nairn as a place in which to live, but also most importantly to increase its appeal as a holiday destination and as a place for locals to work and relax."

The town has gone through difficult times but we have an opportunity now to capitalise on the town's seaside location to create a sustainable future Lord Cawdor

Colin Cawdor said one of their aims was to help Nairn regain its past glory.

He said: "Six months ago when I launched my New Future for Nairn concept I referred to our desire to help Nairn reclaim its title as the Brighton of the North.

"During Victorian times Nairn was a very popular seaside destination.

"The town has gone through difficult times but we have an opportunity now to capitalise on the town's seaside location to create a sustainable future."

The earl and countess have previously clashed over Cawdor Castle, the family home, which has links to Macbeth.

Five years ago, the countess tried to have her stepson Colin Robert Vaughan Campbell - the seventh Earl of Cawdor and 25th Thane of Cawdor - and his family evicted from the castle after they moved in while she was on holiday.

The dispute ended up in the Court of Session in Edinburgh.

Shakespeare play

The real Macbeth was Thane of Cawdor and became King of Scotland after the death of Duncan in the 11th Century.

In the Shakespeare play, written in 1606, the murder of Duncan takes place in Inverness Castle.

Many academics have associated the killing with Cawdor Castle.