The local authorities with the highest deprivation levels and weakest social infrastructure have been selected for a wide range of regeneration projects.

Scottish secretary Douglas Alexander said: ‘Over decades of decline, people have watched as their neighbourhoods have lost services and support, so now we are putting the power into the hands of local people who can decide how the money is spent. We're investing directly in Scottish communities to build stronger, thriving neighbourhoods.'

Neighbourhood boards, comprising representatives from the local community, will decide what the investment will be spent on with funding starting from April 2026.

Projects could include revitalising high streets and town centres, preserving local heritage, providing housing, creating jobs, boosting productivity and skills, improving health and well-being, creating new transport links, providing education and opportunity, and improving safety and security. 

The 12 local authorities are: Aberdeen City; City of Edinburgh; Falkirk; Fife; Glasgow; Highland; North Ayrshire; North Lanarkshire; South Ayrshire; South Lanarkshire; Na h-Eileanan Siar; and West Lothian.