The Scottish Government has announced a £2.5 million fund will be available for community organisations to bid for regeneration funding.

The Strengthening Communities Programme (SCP) has received an extra £500,000 investment for 2016/17 and helps communities lead economic/redevelopment work in their areas.

Organisations whose funding will be maintained in 2016/17 include the Happy n' Healthy Community Development Trust in South Lanarkshire which is developing a community wind turbine.

In addition, due to £585,000 in funding through the joint local authority and Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, and a Big Lottery grant, Burnfoot Community Futures in the Scottish Borders was able to purchase a derelict former pub and transform it into a multi-purpose centre.

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It now hosts a nursery offering childcare and training, café, soft play area, garden and growing space and function room with dance studio and events space

Community Empowerment Minister Marco Biagi announced the investment during a visit to Burnfoot Community Futures.

"This £2.5 million investment is helping communities breathe life into disused buildings, producing opportunities for renewables generation, establishing community transport and tourism initiatives and creating jobs," he said.

"By increasing our investment this year we are able to give more communities the opportunity to take forward improvements to their area, on their own terms. This investment will help enterprising community groups become anchor organisations in their local areas."

(LM/MH)