Over 200 rejected planning applications were overturned by the Government in 2016, according to new research published by the Scottish Conservatives.

With a total of 209 previously rejected applications being reversed between January and November, the figures also show 209 decisions were dismissed.

Applications range from a variety of projects, from wind farms to individual building applications.

The Scottish Conservatives have now accused Ministers of being "control freaks", with local government spokesman Graham Simpson stating the Government "care little about local democracy".

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"It's right that there is an appeals route for planning decisions, and of course there will be occasions where applications have to be looked at again," he said.

"But these figures show SNP ministers have become control freaks, and care little about local democracy.

"The message here to developers is don't worry if your planning application is unpopular locally and rejected by the council, because you have a Scottish Government in Edinburgh just as likely to vote the other way."

A spokeswoman for the Scottish Government said the figures were "entirely erroneous".

"The right to appeal to Scottish ministers against certain decisions made by planning authorities is contained in legislation," she said.

"Independent reporters decide the vast majority of these appeals and are required, as is the case for all planning applications and appeals, to make the decision in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise."

(LM/CD)