Communities can help to bring environmental and health benefits to their areas by bidding for a share of a £400,000 fund.

The 2018/19 round of the Central Scotland Green Network Development Fund will support projects promoting active travel, woodland planting, community growing and restoring land in a bid to transform the area into a place where the environment adds value to the economy.

Since 2010, the fund has seen £6.3million invested in more than 180 projects, including a £22,500 grant to Renfrewshire Council for a feasibility study into the development of a strategic cycling/walking link from Johnstone to the Erskine Bridge and a £15,000 award for East Renfrewshire Council to undertake a feasibility study of developing a green link to the west of Barrhead.

Keith Geddes, chair of the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) Trust, said: “We are proud to continue our support of the development fund, helping to improve the lives of people living, working and visiting Scotland’s Central Belt and supporting the delivery of a better natural environment.“Through the fund, wWe have been able to support a range of worthwhile projects across the region, helping them to make a real difference through the invaluable work they carry out.

“We are looking forward to the next round of applications and are keen to hear from eligible projects that are supporting and creating woodland areas, green infrastructure and active travel, as well as those encouraging community growing.”

The deadline for applications is Monday, February 5.

For more information or to apply, visit here.