A national initiative to help revive the country's town centres is to be spearheaded by leading Scottish architect, Malcolm Fraser.

Starting this month Fraser will chair the Scottish government's National Review of Town Centres.

The assembled panel of experts will aim to tackle issues around planning, rent and rates, competition and empty properties.

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Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the nation's town centres were "vital to the economic and social fabric of Scotland".

"We want to take every measure possible to ensure our high streets are vibrant places where local people want to spend their time and money,” Ms Sturgeon said.

Adding: "In 2009 we awarded £60m to 66 projects through our Town Centre Regeneration Fund, creating nearly 1,000 jobs.

"The review will build on this significant investment.

"With Scotland's high streets facing a range of challenges, we are eager to ensure that they continue to thrive and flourish to meet the needs of future generations."

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