Regeneration projects in disadvantaged and rural communities across Scotland are set to receive a share of almost £27m of funding, the Scottish government has announced.

The latest round of funding from the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF), delivered in partnership with COSLA and local authorities, is aimed at supporting 23 community-based initiatives, which are tackling issues such as child poverty and town centre regeneration.

Holyrood predicts the funding will create and support more than 700 jobs and more than 500 construction jobs, along with hundreds of training places.

Community wealth minister Tom Arthur said: ‘These innovative, grassroots schemes have been developed within communities to address local needs.

‘Scottish government support will help provide services like employment training, affordable childcare, mental health support and addiction counselling. Derelict landmarks will be redeveloped and new buildings created.

‘By working in partnership with residents and local authorities, we are helping communities to support themselves and develop fair, green and prosperous economies which accelerate progress towards net zero emissions.’

COSLA’s environment and economy spokesperson Cllr Gail Macgregor said: ‘The announcement today shows the strength of the RCGF and the commitment by local government to regenerating communities.

‘In this uncertain time of inflation, rising energy costs and increased demand on services, the fund demonstrates what can be achieved in our towns, cities, villages and islands when support is focused on social and economic renewal.

‘From tackling the mental health crisis to food poverty, affordable childcare to climate change, this fund goes beyond what we traditionally think of as regeneration thanks to the ambition and innovative thinking of communities across Scotland.’