The Scottish Government recognises the important contribution made by Scotland's town centres to the achievement of its purpose of increasing sustainable economic growth. Town centres are a key element of the economic and social fabric of the nation, acting as centres of employment and services for local communities and a focus for civic activity. We want to see town centres reach their full potential and to support local economies through these challenging economic times.
The new Town Centre Regeneration Fund is a sign of our commitment to the improvement of Scotland's town centres and local high streets. We are making available £60m in 2009-10. We want these significant new funds to support community and business leaders to regenerate and grow our town centres. This funding will help our town centres adapt to modern markets, and supply the access, mix of facilities and services, and environment that will meet the needs of local communities and businesses.
Applications for the scheme are now closed. There were two rounds of assessments of applications. The deadline for consideration in the first round was June 5 2009; and successful applicants were announced on August 6. The deadline for the second round was August 28 2009.
For more information about the fund read the FAQs.