The UK Government announced that neighbourhoods in South Lanarkshire would be among 14 that would each receive up to £20 million over 10 years to fund renewal projects to improve communities and support local growth.

Government ministers describe their Pride in Place Strategy as “a break from the past and a new way for government to work in partnership with communities and neighbourhoods.”

Council Leader Joe Fagan said: “This new Pride in Place strategy closely aligns with the ambitions and plans we already have in place at South Lanarkshire Council to breathe new life into communities that have really struggled in recent years.

“We look forward to working with the Scotland Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to finalise plans for how we use this funding, and we will ensure that the wishes and needs of local people are at the heart of that process.”

Further details of the Pride in Place programme are expected to be confirmed before the end of this year.

South Lanarkshire is one of 14 areas of Scotland to be awarded the long-term funding, with another eight areas to receive funding from an additional Pride in Place Impact Fund.