The funding boost for Moray which will see projects in Forres and Tomintoul benefit has been welcomed by MSP Richard Lochhead.
Forres Area Community Trust (Fact) and the Tomintoul and Glenlivet Development Trust (TGDT) both received grants through the Scottish Land Fund.
Fact has been awarded £116,365 to purchase Forres Town Hall, and TGDT is set to receive £183,800 to transform the site of the former secondary school into plots for affordable homes.
Mr Lochhead has described the investment in these communities as a real boost.
Moray’s MSP said: “I’m delighted that organisations in Forres and Tomintoul secure funding through the Scottish Land Fund, for projects that will really boost these local communities.
“Forres Town Hall is such an important asset for the area and I know that Fact have exciting and ambitious plans for the building.
“It is also great that the Tomintoul and Glenlivet Development Trust has secured cash to develop some much needed, new affordable housing in the village.
“Having been involved in setting up the Scottish Land Fund, it’s great to see groups in Moray benefiting and accessing cash that will empower communities and allow local people real power in shaping the future of their town.
“The folk involved have worked incredibly hard to get to this point. I look forward to supporting them in any way I can as things move forward.”