Image: Peckham, London, is in line for HLF funding

More than 10 city and town centre regeneration schemes across the UK have secured initial support through the Heritage Lottery Fund's (HLF) Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).

A total of 12 projects are in line to receive a share of £15.9m following the announcement - including a first round pass of £1.6m towards the regeneration of Tredegar, Blaenau Gwent.

Other locations to receive initial HLF support include Peckham, London (£1.7m); Bacup in Lancashire (£1.5m); Dewsbury, Huddersfield (£2m); and Folkestone (£1.3m).

The funding is designed to support partnerships between local organisations to bring about the repair and restoration of historic features in often run-down areas.

HLF chief executive Carole Souter said: "Our town centres deserve to be at the heart of community life and the Heritage Lottery Fund believes that even small changes can make a difference."

Details: www.hlf.org.uk