Big changes will soon be happening in two East Ayrshire town centres thanks to an announcement from the Scottish Government that projects in Galston have secured significant funding through the Town Centre Regeneration Fund.

The Council was successful in securing almost £1m for the Galston and Cumnock from a pot of £40m, competing with another 131 applicants for the first round of funding. £250,000 was approved for the 'Galston: Achieving Sustainable Regeneration' project.

The 'Galston - Achieving Sustainable Regeneration' project, costing £535,000, is located in the Outstanding Conservation Area at Bridge Street/Cross Street.

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The project aims to increase footfall to the retail core of the town and support the creation of a vibrant town centre.

The project will involve the demolition and clearance of a prominent derelict site and the creation of a new landscaped car park including the installation of CCTV and additional lighting to improve community safety.

The project enhances the Council's investment in the wider regeneration of Galston town centre and will deliver long-term benefits to the community as a whole.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: "I am absolutely delighted that the Council has secured substantial funding from the Scottish Government’s TCRF fund. The successful projects will create improved town centres of which residents, businesses and visitors can be proud."

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Environment and Regeneration, added: "These worthwhile projects will contribute greatly to the Council’s priority of town centre regeneration. The competition for funding was extremely fierce however, yet again, East Ayrshire has been successful. I look forward to seeing the projects develop over the coming months."

(GK/BMcC)