Brechin is to receive £1.8m from the government's town centre regeneration fund (TCRF).

The bid was submitted by the council in August to supplement and expand the work being done in the town centre through the Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).

The £1.8m grant from the TCRF will be used towards the acquisition and renovation of some properties at the heart of the town. This will include environmental improvements; provide additional housing and the refurbishment of some properties to create modern retail and office space.

Welcoming the announcement council leader and chairman of the Brechin THI councillor Bob Myles said it was fantastic news for the burgh:"This is a great boost to the council and community's efforts to reinvigorate the town centre and adds both cash and value to the work of the THI.

-- Advertisement --

"At the centre of our bid is the need bring back into use some of the commercial and residential properties in the town centre that are in a poor state of repair and have been vacant for a long time."

"As well as improving the amenity and attractiveness of the town for the longer term the construction work will provide an immediate economic boost, with contractors having the opportunity to bid for around £1m of construction work, work that otherwise would not have been available," he continued.

"The funds have to be committed by the end of the financial year so our first priority is to get the purchase of the buildings identified underway.

"The council looks forward to working with the property owners, the local business association and other interested parties in the community to take this exciting project forward."

(GK/BMcC)