The Scottish Government will scrutinise plans for a £140m film studio which developers want to build outside Edinburgh.

PSL Land Ltd wants to built a major film studio complex at Straiton to the south of Edinburgh.

It had previously written to the government to "call in" and review its planning application on the grounds that a planning decision has been delayed by Midlothian Council.

This was rejected, but on appeal, the Government will now re-assess the plans.

It is planned that the case will be decided upon by February 25.The Herald:

The change in the Government's heart on the matter is believed to have been influenced by a petition which drew more than 3000 supporters.

PSL Land Ltd want to build a film and TV studio and backlot complex, a hotel, film school and student accommodation, a studio tour and other features.

They believe, as well as providing Scotland with a major film studio complex, it will generate 900 jobs in the area.

The appeal will be held, the Government said, because "Ministers recognise the potential economic and cultural benefits associated with this proposal to be an issue of national importance.

"Therefore, Ministers recall the appeal for their own determination."

The Government is also engaged in endeavours to build a studio with some public money at a facility near Cumbernauld.

This plan is at a "critical stage", it said.

However, the government also says it "remains open" to proposals from other investors.

A spokesman said: "The Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise and Creative Scotland are determined to do whatever we can, within EU State Aid rules, to deliver enhanced film studio facilities in Scotland.

"A public-private proposal, with the potential to meet this aspiration, is currently at a critical stage of consideration, and we remain open to proposals from other potential investors.

"We appreciate the sector has been patient about this work, but can assure all that the Film Studio Delivery Group is continuing to work incredibly hard, in complex and challenging territory, to deliver a positive outcome that satisfies EU regulations and the requirements of all relevant public and private stakeholders."