SCOTTISH projects that support biodiversity and improve the wellbeing of local communities are set to benefit from a multi-million pound cash boost. 

All local authorities, plus Scotland’s two National Parks, will receive a share of £6.5 million directly from the Scottish Government’s Edinburgh Process Fund - the second stream of the £65m annual Nature Restoration Fund.

A total of £5m has been allocated to councils to deliver projects that support the priority aims of the Fund: habitat and species restoration, freshwater restoration, coastal and marine protection and eradication of non-native species.

Councils can also apply to top up their direct allocation from a £1.5m pot  to deliver larger scale, multi-year nature restoration projects.

Biodiversity Minister Lorna Slater said: “The Scottish Government is committed to tackling the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change, both at home and abroad.

“Connecting people with nature, in urban and rural areas, brings so many benefits in terms of health and wellbeing.

"Improving our more green spaces will enable people to enjoy spending time outdoors and care for the natural environment on their doorstep."