Plans for the construction of new visitor facilities as part of a scheme to enhance the Giant's Causeway World Heritage Site, Northern Ireland, have secured a £3m boost from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The National Trust, which owns the World Heritage Site, is planning to preserve and enhance the North Antrim attraction, while also implementing a volunteering strategy aimed at including the local community in the site's maintenance. Liverpool's Florence Institute for the Boys has also received a £3.7m Lottery funding towards an extensive repair and conservation programme more than 20 years after the former Toxteth youth club closed its doors.

The facility, which is regarded as one of Britain's oldest surviving purpose-built youth clubs, is housed within a 19th century Jacobean-style building and is set to become a new multi-purpose community centre for young people in Toxteth. HLF chair Dame Jenny Abramsky said: "This is heritage in all its kaleidoscopic glory. From Northern Ireland's breathtaking coastal landscape to Liverpool's first-ever youth club, these places have mass appeal.

"Heritage means different things to different people, but what is really important is these places reflect the UK's multi-layer and fascinating history." Meanwhile, the HLF has confirmed first-round passes for four other projects across the UK, including initial support for plans for the restoration and improvement of the 99-year old transporter bridge in Middlesbrough.

A scheme to open up Kettle's Yard arts and music venue in Cambridgeshire, repairs to the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, Oxford, and efforts to establish a visitor attraction at a former Roman fort in Maryport, Cumbria have also received support to draw up detailed proposals for a share of more than £11m.