£1.6m is to be invested in Falkirk’s town centre to preserve and enhance its historic past.

The funding will go towards the £2m already awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund in May last year.

The award was part of Historic Scotland’s Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) project.

The money go towards supporting THI grants to businesses, tenants and residential owners and will be allocated to properties within the new Falkirk Townscape Heritage Initiative area.

The improvements will include:

- Targeting vacant properties back into economic use

- New or improved shop fronts

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- Restoration of architectural detail and grants for repairs to buildings

- Improvement of a number of streets off the High Street

- Training initiatives and support for independent retailers

Councillor Dennis Goldie, Convener of Economic Strategy and Development said: "This is terrific news for Falkirk town Centre.

"It is particularly welcome at a time when town centres across the country are hard pressed and is testament to the excellent partnership between the Council, Falkirk BID and local retailers to promote the town centre. Falkirk’s town centre has a celebrated historical past and it’s our vision to ensure that it is preserved and, wherever possible, improved.

"We look forward to working with local business owners, landlords, residents and other interested groups that all want to see the very best for our town centre."

The successful bid is part of a wider £5m bid that could see Falkirk’s town centre transformed.

Councillor Goldie added: "We have a great ambition for the town centre that will improve local use and a better experience for visitors alike. This can ultimately make our businesses more profitable and attract more visitors to our area."

(IT)