More than £407,000 is to be shared by 14 projects across Scotland in a bid to improve access and learning opportunities for people living near the country's urban woodlands.

Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) has awarded the grants through the Woods In and Around Towns programme and Forest for People challenge funds to help landowners revitalise existing woodlands. Nearly £40,000 has been awarded to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee to develop nearby woodlands for walking and recreation to boost patient recovery, as well as for staff and visitors to enjoy.

Other grants include nearly £69,000 towards North Ayrshire Council's efforts to revitalise woodland within the grounds of Spiers School to help enhance recreational and learning opportunities. Borders Forest Trust (£53,900); Orkney Island Council (£52,507) and Craigmillar Castle Park (£35,050) are also among the recipients of FCS funding.

Scottish environment minister Roseanna Cunningham said: "The development of woodlands in towns and cities is making a real difference to the quality of life of many people across Scotland."