The Scottish executive could be set to relax planning rules on satellite dishes despite environmental fears.

Ministers hope that the move could result in an expansion in take-up of satellite and broadband technology

Following a consultation homeowners could be allowed to install more than one dish without planning permission.

The Edinburgh-based government accepts that houses in the 21st century "may need more than one satellite dish or antenna for different purposes".

Under current rules if people need more than one dish, they must apply for separate planning permission.

'Digital age'

Ministers say the move may be necessary to ensure Scotland benefits from the "digital age".

"We need to look at modernising and improving the planning system to take account of how new technologies are used," said Mary Mulligan.
 
"Many people already have digital technology in their homes, through various methods – cable, aerial or satellite. Relaxing planning controls could allow people to easily take advantage of these without worrying about gaining permission.

"People in remote and rural communities who wish broadband, for example, can now gain access via satellite. Deregulation could help save them time and money.

"Also, more than 50 per cent of households have already switched to digital television. The UK government is working towards switching off the analogue signal by 2010. If that target is to be met, the planning system has an important part to play."

But critics will say that any relaxation in planning rules could lead to some areas being blighted by multi-satellites - a claim denied by the executive.

"In any revision of the planning regulations, we will continue to maintain the necessary balance between the freedom to develop and safeguarding the visual impact on communities. We must ensure, however, that the planning system can accommodate the digital age," added Mulligan.