AYRSHIRE is set to see investment of almost £3.5million designed to "level up communities".

More than 50 projects across Scotland are set to receive a share of an £18million UK Government investment to help people into work, boost productivity and help to deliver net zero carbon emissions.

The Community Renewal Fund will aim at piloting new programmes that invest in people, boost skills and support local business across Ayrshire, with local authorities invited to bid for funding from the Community Renewal Fund back in May 2021.   

In East Ayrshire, community projects including A Re-use Hub for New Cumnock, All in East Ayrshire, Leisure at the Heart of All Communities and the Support to Engage Project will receive almost £1.3million worth of funding, while in North Ayrshire the Impact Arts, Islands Green Programme and Place Frameworks Development will receive £1.2 million.

South Ayrshire's funding will go to Foundations for Recovery and a University of the West of of Scotland community fund, who will receive over a million pounds to share.

Secretary of State for Scotland Alister Jack said: "This £18million for 56 projects will help strengthen communities across Scotland.

"From helping to develop a 21st Century carbon-neutral village, to boosting skills, employment and enterprise, encouraging tourism, supporting performing arts and investment in cyber and digital - this money is being spent on projects that matter most to people."

For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/new-levelling-up-and-community-investments