A grant of £150,000 has been awarded to the outdoor learning and education centre which has long served as a sanctuary for people and nature.

This will allow the charity’s woodlands and buildings to continue operating and will help retain skilled staff, maintain essential infrastructure and create plans to attract additional income.

It will also allow the exploration of new technologies to make the building more sustainable.

David Murdoch Wiston Lodge’s CEO said: “This funding is a fantastic boost to us. It strengthens our ability to serve vulnerable children, young people, and adults through nature-based learning and explore exciting new opportunities to ensure a sustainable future for Wiston Lodge.

“We are deeply grateful for the support from the REF and South Lanarkshire Council.”

The REF will also secure vital local jobs and meet future statutory obligations including promoting inclusion and wellbeing.

Councillor Robert Brown, the Chair of the Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, said: “This funding will now ensure the immediate and future needs of this invaluable outdoor education and activity centre.

“Wiston Lodge plays a vital role, inspiring and educating residential groups and visitors alike, teaching them how to get closer to nature and understand the impact we have on our environment.”

All REFs are subject to suitable match funding with £40,000 Community Led Local Development Fund to be confirmed to match the 79% Middle Muir REF contribution of £150,000 for the total project value of £190,000

The Renewable Energy Fund is for capital projects within 10km of a participating renewable energy development.

Capital projects are usually long-term projects to acquire, develop, improve and/or maintain a capital asset such as land, buildings or roads or one-off activities, and further information can be found on the council website.