Between October and December the number of local housing developments – applications for under 50 houses – was at the highest for the past 11 quarters, according to new planning statistics.

Planning applications were also processed more quickly, while the average time to process major housing developments was at its slowest.

Communities Secretary Alex Neil said: "Scotland's planning system must facilitate much needed new infrastructure and create high quality, sustainable places to live and work. That's crucial to promoting strong, sustainable economic growth.

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"There is good work in authorities across the country and I am encouraged to see that local housing applications are not only increasing, but that decisions are being made on them more quickly than ever.

"I am however concerned that a small number of major housing applications are still taking far too long and that this is distorting the overall average figures.

"I recognise there is still more that can be done to support delivery which is why we are working across Government and closely with planners, housebuilders and other partners to develop a five year Joint Delivery Plan for Housing. The Plan will be published shortly and will set out our joint priorities for action to support new housing."

(CD/JP)