Investment in projects that will enhance and protect the fabric of Scotland’s cultural heritage has been welcomed by Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop.

The £11.3 million additional funding for “shovel-ready” projects announced today will not only will boost the Scottish economy, but will also bring social and community benefits across Scotland.

Ms Hyslop said:

“Scotland is known around the world for its rich culture and heritage. These sectors attract thousands of visitors to our shores each year, supporting jobs and generating billions of pounds for the Scottish economy.

“This Government is focused on maximising the value of every public pound as we take forward programmes to support economic recovery – including further investment in the maintenance of our cultural assets.

“Creative Scotland’s capital programme invests in facilities, refurbishments and equipment, improving access, presentation and enjoyment of the arts and culture all round Scotland. Additional funding of £3 million over the next three years will help Creative Scotland to support even more projects that bring real economic benefits to communities and deliver better facilities for artists and audiences.

“Funding of £1.6 million over two years is also being provided to Historic Scotland to support the completion of repairs to Lews Castle in Stornoway, including the external stonework and the roof, and the fine plaster and timber work inside. The Castle, which has been empty since 1998, has had long term problems of water ingress and structural instability.

“This investment is enabling the Castle to be developed as a hotel and museum, maintaining public access while allowing the main rooms of the Castle to be used as reception rooms, and in a financially sustainable way.

“A further £2 million funding for Historic Scotland will ensure the agency’s heritage assets continue to be maintained effectively and reduce the need for extensive and costly repairs in the future.

“This funding for shovel-ready culture and heritage projects will inject growth into the economy, demonstrating how this Government – in the face of Westminster economic neglect – is using all the powers we have to create new opportunities for our people.”

Support for cultural projects also covers an energy-saving maintenance project at the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh, the internal and external maintenance of National Library of Scotland premises, and roof repairs at the National Records of Scotland building in Sighthill, Edinburgh.

Source: Scottish Government