Nine historic communities across Scotland will benefit from more than £5m, Culture Minister Linda Fabiani announced on Friday.

Announcing the latest round of Historic Scotland's Conservation Area Regeneration Schemes (CARS), the Minister said: "These grants provide vital support for councils who want to breathe new life into areas that have not had the means to do so in recent years."

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Fabiani said the investment is essential for sustainable development, economic growth, training and job creation for those who live and work in the community.

Historic Scotland has so far distributed £8.5m to 16 councils since the scheme launched in 2007. CARS specifically target historic areas with social and economic disadvantages that make it difficult to attract investment in sustainable regeneration.

Funding can be used for repairs and improvements to private homes and businesses as well as restoring local landmarks to bring them back into use. Local authorities can also use the money to appoint qualified conservation staff to guide the project or provide training in traditional skills.

(GK/JM)