Funding awarded from Levelling Up Fund

Funding has been awarded from the Levelling Up Fund to projects around the country.

£20 million will be used to upgrade Kilmarnock and help it become a national cultural destination. The Palace Theatre and Grand Hall will be reimagined and allow the venue to expand its offer and attract external performers.

Anneke Freel, chief officer of East Ayrshire Leisure Trust said: “This is such an exciting project for Kilmarnock and for Ayrshire that will allow us to create a theatre and concert hall that will attract high profile performers and make performing arts more accessible to local people.”

Shetland Islands Council will receive almost £27 million to help fund a new ferry for Fair Isle - the most remote habitat in the United Kingdom. The new ferry is intended to help islanders access healthcare and education, welcome visitors and import essential supplies.

£14.4 million has provisionally be allocated to redevelop a dated multi-storey car park into a sustainable transport hub in Dundee. Charging for electric vehicles and e-bikes will be installed and powered by renewable energy sources.

The Belfast arts sector is to receive over £4 million to renovate the last remaining Picturehouse in Northern Ireland and transform into a versatile arts space.

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