Clackmannanshire Council is inviting groups throughout the county to apply for a share of £100,000 worth in grants.

The grants are available to local communities in an effort to improve the quality of life in the area.

The Council's Community Environmental Improvement Fund is open to communities across Clackmannanshire following a public launch earlier this week.

Each community will be able to apply for one project up to a maximum of £10,000, with the minimum grant being £1,000.

There are a number of ways the cash could be used include providing, restoring or improving community environmental resources such as parks, community gardens, reduction of waste, reuse, recycling or use of environmentally friendly materials, gardens, local green spaces, woodlands or paths.

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The fund is also aimed at establishing community and special interest groups with the goal of improving their local environment, such as improving degraded land, main streets and neighbourhoods for public benefit.

Criteria for a grant to be made, is that a project must be capable of completion by a year from the start date, be located within Clackmannanshire, and be unlikely to be able to proceed without this funding. Match funding is not essential, but projects attracting match funding will be scored higher, and projects must not result in increased maintenance costs for the Council.

Committee Convener Donald Balsillie said: "I'm delighted to see the difference that the Council's funding has made at Park Primary School, and to many other projects in the county. From the removal of chewing gum in Alloa town centre to providing a new viewing platform at Menstrie Glen, last year's successful projects have improved the environment and quality of life for local communities.

"I hope that this year communities from throughout the county will be inspired by these projects and apply to the fund to help improve their local areas and that local businesses will consider supporting the fund either financially or with support in kind.

"To receive a grant, communities have to demonstrate Spend to Save principles while at the same time developing community participation by residents who want to make a difference to their environment and improve the quality of life in their area."

The closing date for applications is 31 October 2013.

(JP/MH)