A £1.5m initiative has been launched by the Association of Independent Museums (AIM) in partnership with Biffa Award to support industrial heritage projects throughout the UK.

The National Heritage Landmarks Partnership Scheme is designed to establish a nationwide network of interpretation and education projects showcasing industrial development.

Biffa Award will contribute £500,000 each year for three years towards projects that revamp derelict buildings and sites into "inspirational resources" for members of the public.

AIM chair Matthew Tanner said: "It will open up new perspectives of our national heritage as well as providing much needed investment into some of the most important industrial sites in the UK."

Biffa Award programme manager Gillian French added: "Local communities will benefit not only from the transformation of disused buildings, but from the intrinsic cultural value of the scheme."

Applicants will have to demonstrate significant impact and heritage benefit in their bids for funding, with up to four projects to benefit in each round.

Details: www.aim-museums.co.uk