Local authorities have until Tuesday, August 2 to submit an application for the UK Government’s funding, which aims to deliver on plans to boost town centres, local transport and support cultural and historical assets.

The government has said that a high number of local authorities in Scotland have already applied.

However, councils that have not yet done so are being urged to submit their applications.

Eight projects in Scotland received a combined £171 million as part of the first round of funding last year.

It included £16.48m to transform Granton waterfront and £19.9m in Dumbarton to partially demolish and then regenerate its central shopping precinct.

Communities in need of economic recovery and growth will be prioritised, according to the UK Government.

Scottish secretary Alister Jack said the funding would improve “everyday lives” all over the country.

He said: “The UK Government is focussed on growing our economy and levelling up opportunities across the country.

“Backed by £2bn direct funding we are supporting transformative projects the length and breadth of Scotland that will improve everyday lives.”

Speaking ahead of the latest round of bids arriving, levelling up minister Greg Clark said: “I am determined that we will go full steam ahead to back proposals that will make a big difference to public places.

“The UK Levelling Up Fund is bringing to life things that will make a big different to local communities and I look forward to seeing many great projects get the green light.”

Mr Jack added: “I urge councils, working with their communities, to put bids in by August 2 for the next round of the Levelling Up Fund so as many local areas as possible can benefit from regenerative schemes such as improving town centres, boosting local transport links and supporting cultural and historical assets.”

After applications are closed on August 2, bids will be assessed against whether they are deliverable and meet levelling up objectives and will have the strength of their economic case assessed.

Shortlists will be drawn up separately for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Scotland will also benefit from further levelling up funding with £212 million earmarked from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which aims to help the most deprived communities.