Boost for community projects across Scotland

The UK Government has announced funding for six projects across Scotland, as part of ministers' "levelling up" programme.

The iconic Edinburgh Filmhouse is being granted £1.5million pounds, after it was forced into administration late in 2022.

The money will be used to refurbish the historical cinema by installing a new fourth screen and improving accessibility throughout the building.

Six projects in total are benefiting from the money, which forms the third round of the Government's £150 million Community Ownership Fund. Others include Kilmarnock community group Take a Bow development Trust which has been awarded £854,000. Castlemilk Community Football Trust, East Renfrewshire community hub, and Penicuik YMCA are also set to benefit.

Levelling up minister Jacob Young described the money as "a major rescue package" that will "stop these great establishments closing or being lost forever".

He said: "We know how much these vital community assets mean to people across the country. They are an important lifeline for people young and old, and they're the beating heart of our towns, cities and villages."

There will be one further round of funding as part of the Community Ownership Fund, which will be announced later this year.

The fourth round will involve two bidding windows, one opening on Monday and the other in late May.

In total, £103 million of the Community Ownership Fund has been announced so far.

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