North Lanarkshire is set to enhance its local green spaces and boost community enjoyment thanks to a significant award of over £639,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

This funding will support the 'Nearer to Nature' project, a community-driven initiative aimed at making green spaces better and more accessible for residents across the region.

A key element of the project will be the creation of a new "environmental justice map," a digital tool designed to pinpoint areas most in need of green space improvements and visualise potential enhancements. This innovative approach aims to ensure that local people play a direct role in shaping a greener future for their communities. Nearer to Nature will work hand-in-hand with residents, soliciting their priorities and involving them in decisions on where funding should be allocated. Together, they will help design 18 specific projects to improve natural areas and foster connected habitats for local wildlife. The work will be supported by two full-time staff and a dedicated team of local "Greenspace Ambassadors."

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The project will also explore new, sustainable models for future green improvements, including concepts like "habitat banking" and "green audits." This funding is one of 19 grants awarded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund through its new 'Nature Towns and Cities' programme, an initiative by Natural England, National Trust, and the Heritage Fund aiming to transform at least 100 places across the UK into greener, healthier, and happier environments.

Councillor Helen Loughran, who leads North Lanarkshire Council's Environment and Climate Change Committee, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. "Through Nearer to Nature, we'll work with communities to plan green spaces where wildlife can thrive and people can enjoy the health and social benefits of being in nature," she said. While North Lanarkshire boasts extensive green space, Councillor Loughran acknowledged that not everyone has equal access. "This funding will help us design two projects in each community board area, based on what local people want and need," she added, highlighting wider benefits such as volunteering opportunities, improved health, stronger communities, and enhanced climate resilience.

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, commented on the broader impact: "We're investing £15 million to help 40 towns and cities across the UK plan for better urban nature. Over the last 30 years, we've helped improve over 900 parks and green spaces. This new programme will build on that work and help millions more people enjoy nature where they live." Nick Halfhide, Chief Executive of NatureScot, added: "Urban green spaces are where most people connect with nature every day. They're good for our health and wellbeing. This funding will help North Lanarkshire and Fife attract more investment and work with communities who need these improvements most."