Local communities across the central belt are being invited to bid for a share of up to £400,000 of funding to improve green spaces.

The Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) funding round for 2018/19 will offer investment to projects which promote active travel, woodland planting, community growing and land restoration.

Over the last seven years, more than 180 projects have benefitted from £6.3 million of funding.

Speaking during a visit to the New Caledonian Woodlands Ltd, which secured investment in the 2017-18 round, Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said each green community project helps towards creating a "cleaner and greener" Scotland.

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"Since 2010 this investment has helped more than 180 projects improve green spaces in their local areas," she said.

"As I prepare to discuss Scotland's green ambitions at the UN climate change convention this weekend, it's more important than ever that we recognise how these small individual actions can play a role in reducing emissions, and why getting together to improve our green spaces is so crucial."

Keith Geddes, Chair of the CSGN Trust, said: "We are proud to continue our support of the CSGN Development Fund, helping to improve the lives of people living, working and visiting Scotland's Central Belt and support the delivery of a better natural environment.

"Through the Development Fund, we have been able to support a range of worthwhile projects across the region, helping them to make a real difference through the invaluable work they carry out.

"We are looking forward to the next round of applications and are keen to hear from eligible projects that are supporting and creating woodland areas, green infrastructure, active travel as well as those encouraging community growing."

For further information and eligibility criteria, visit here.

(LM)