The controversial Mainshill opencast mine has been given the go ahead — after the Scottish Government refused to intervene in the planning application.

Under new planning regulation, Circular 3, introduced on April 1, the Government has decided that South Lanarkshire Council is best placed to handle the application.

A Government spokesman said: "The new regulations are designed to make planning easier and reform is a priority for the Scottish Government.

"In respect to this particular decision the Government felt that the decision would be better taken by the local authority."

The decision has angered many locals in Douglas most notably pressure group Morag, set-up to oppose Mainshill.

For more on the Carluke and Lanark Gazette story by Ross Thomson click on the external link below

Click HERE to read the Government determination