Moray’s local Westminster Member of Parliament, Angus Robertson, has welcomed the launch of a new lotteries grant programme.

Community Spaces Scotland, a new £9 million fund will bring communities together around a space or place that matters to them, helping those spaces and places to be better used, and the people in their communities to become healthier, happier and more active.

Applications are being sought from voluntary and community organisations as well as schools, community councils and social enterprises. Applications can be made for grants between 10k and 250k.

The funds are being targetted to areas that the money can make the biggest positive difference and eligibility can be checked at www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/communityspaces.

Welcoming the initiative Angus Robertson MP said:

“ This is a really good opportunity to take forward projects around community halls, allotments, play areas, community gardens and many others.

“ The community space can be indoor or outdoor and projects should encourage people to become more involved in their community and bring people together.

“ I know there will be many community groups in Moray who will have a great interest in this fund and now is the time to plan and get applications submitted.

“ Community facilities such as halls and gardens are incredibly valuable and act as a focal point for social, cultural and sports activities and this fund will be a valuable resource for successful applicants.”