Regeneration projects handed £6.2m funding boost

Seven Scottish communities are to receive combined funding of £6.2 million to help boost regeneration and attract future funding.

Projects in Dunoon, Rothesay, Penicuik, Union Street in Aberdeen, Cockenzie, Jedburgh and Maybole will share the cash in the latest awards.

It is the seventh round of Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) awards, which has already seen £44.2 million invested by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and Historic Scotland.

HES chief executive Alex Paterson said: “In Scotland's year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, we're celebrating all the different elements which make up our rich and diverse historic environment.

“Preserving the built heritage of our town centres is a hugely important part of this because investment in our historic environment is key to supporting improved quality of life for many people across Scotland.”

The projects include harbour improvement in Cockenzie, East Lothian; Union Street, Aberdeen, which aims to improve its built environment; Jedburgh, where a focus will be put on heritage surrounding Jedburgh Abbey; and Rothesay, where funding will be used to improve and regenerate its seafront.

Mr Paterson praised work already under way in Falkirk to improve the physical appearance of the town centre.

It includes the reinstatement of traditional shop fronts, roof repairs to historic buildings and major repair and restoration work to the exterior of the Falkirk Steeple, including stone and joinery repairs, timber preservation and repairs to the clock faces.

Councillor Dennis Goldie, economic development spokesman at Falkirk Council, said: “The restoration of the steeple, a real local treasure for many people, is nearing completion thanks to nearly £500,000 spent to conserve this iconic local landmark for the future.”