Clackmannanshire Council has secured £750,000 of City Region Deal funding to support the development of the Japanese Gardens at Cowden.

As part of the City Region Deal, signed in early 2020, a Capital Fund for Clackmannanshire was created.

Objectives related to the funding of the Japanese Garden include the payment of the Living Wage to both employees and those working for contractors, at least 90% of the value of capital investment and ongoing maintenance delivered by local (city region) contractors, and the promotion of employment opportunities for those living in deprived communities including Alloa South and East with one in five employment opportunities benefitting those from deprived communities.

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Clackmannanshire Council Leader, Councillor Ellen Forson, said: "I am pleased that this important local landmark has received £750,000 of support to regenerate and revitalise the offer at the Japanese Gardens.

"It is vital that in future years, the opportunities for local businesses and citizens are maximised, to ensure that the Japanese Gardens continues to be a jewel in Clackmannanshire’s crown that benefits all our communities.

"While the broad principles of the project proposal were approved at our last meeting, this final approval enshrines a comprehensive plan to realise the benefits that can flow from this investment in the Japanese Gardens.

"I am hopeful that we will continue to see projects coming forward in the near future, which will provide new opportunities for local people in Clackmannanshire."

The upgrades will also provide benefits to the wider economy, with local businesses engaged in the redevelopment, employment and training opportunities on offer and the chance for school children across the region to visit and learn about Japanese culture.

Work is underway at the site, which has seen visitor numbers increase significantly in recent years. The project will support upgrades to paths and facilities at the Japanese Gardens.