The UK Government has released the first £52.1 million from the Local Growth Fund after green-lighting five Scottish regions’ three-year investment plans.

The fund targets Scotland’s Regional Partnerships that contain the areas with the lowest Gross Disposable Household Income (GDHI) per capita. These include areas like West Dunbartonshire, North Ayrshire, Dundee, Clackmannanshire and Fife

Regional leaders have designed tailored plans for building physical infrastructure, establishing high-growth commercial spaces and closing vital skills gaps.

The £140 million package is allocated proportionally by population across five Scottish regions.

Glasgow City Region has a total three-year allocation of £60.9 million, with £22,684,596 now released and Edinburgh & South East Scotland has a total allocation of £37.8 million, with £14,095,909 now released.

Tay Cities Region will have a total allocation of £19.5 million, with £7,256,931 now released and Ayrshire a total allocation of £11.8 million, with £4,400,298 now released. Forth Valley gets a total allocation of £9.8 million, with £3,665,499 now released.
 

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said: "The UK Government is committed to empowering local communities by spreading power throughout the country. These funds will support local leaders throughout Scotland to create skilled jobs, help start up businesses and revive our local high streets.

"After months of close working directly with regional partners across Scotland, the UK Government is now releasing £52.1 million directly to regional leaders who know their communities best so delivery can begin."