SIX of Scotland's historic buildings will be given a new lease of life after the release of more than £1 million in public cash to fund repairs and renovations.

The Scottish Government has announced plans to funnel a total of £1,186,437 into Historic Scotland’s building repair scheme.

The grants will be given to public buildings, as well as those owned privately or by charitable trusts.

Fiona Hyslop, cabinet secretary for culture and external affairs, said: “Times are tough but each of these projects exemplify why we need to invest in buildings at the heart of our communities so they can continue to be a resource for us all.”

Historic Scotland’s oldest venue, Drum Castle in Aberdeenshire, has been given £465,720 for refurbishments. The grant will ensure that the 13th-century castle can be used as a wedding venue and will allow public access to the tower.

Craigston Castle, also in Aberdeenshire, received £243,371 for repairs to the building’s exterior. The cash will be used for roof repairs, stonework repointing and lime harling. Doors, windows and guttering will also be repaired.

The Smith Art Gallery in Stirling was awarded a £264,600 grant to improve access, heating and insulation. The gallery spaces will also be expanded.

A £161,241 grant will be spent on transforming Dunoon Burgh Halls into a cultural centre.

Historic Scotland also awarded a grant of £37,494 to the Haining Estate in Selkirk. The money will help kickstart a project to transform the A-listed mansion into an arts, music and literature centre. It is hoped the cash will allow the estate to be removed from the buildings at risk register.

Ullapool Museum, an A-listed former church, will be given £14,011 for repairing external stonework.