Controversial plans to build hundreds of new homes in a village have been approved despite more than 900 objections.

Perth and Kinross Council granted permission to build 700 homes in Scone on Wednesday.

Protesters gathered outside the council's headquarters in Perth ahead of the meeting in a bid to have the development rejected.

Despite more than 900 objections being lodged over concerns including traffic and pollution, the plans were given the green light.

John Stephen, managing director of the applicants, A&J Stephen, warned councillors he would appeal to Scottish ministers "within a week" if a decision was not made at the meeting.

He told the committee: "This development is vitally important to the company and its workforce."

Protesters have claimed Mr Stephen blackmailed councillors.

Professor Jill Belch, a cardiovascular consultant who lives in Scone, said: "I think the main thing is that the developer stood up and said if you don't approve we're going to take you to the reporter.

"They were completely blackmailed."

Moira Andrew, of the Scone Study Group, said: "Seven hundred-plus homes will absolutely destroy the whole of this village.

"The traffic will be unbelievable and the air pollution, which is already awful, will increase ridiculously."