A £2.4m building conservation scheme for Aberdeen city centre has been launched.

Grants to help restore and enhance historic properties on Union Street are being offered to owners through a Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS).

The five-year programme is being rolled out by Aberdeen City Council after it was awarded more than £1m by Historic Environment Scotland earlier this year.

The council matched the sum and a further £50,000 is being provided by Aberdeen inspired.

The project ranges from shopfront improvements to the reinstatement of architectural features.

This scheme marks the next step in rejuvenating Aberdeen's main thoroughfare under the city centre masterplan, a 25-year regeneration programme.

Councillor Marie Boulton said: "The city centre masterplan belongs to everyone and through a partnership approach we are transforming Aberdeen's heart.

"We are looking forward to working with the owners of historic properties to restore our built heritage for the benefit of the whole city."

Aberdeen Inspired chief executive Adrian Watson said: "We all know that the issue of Union Street's current state is one that provokes much debate so here's a very real opportunity for the owners to grab the initiative and realise more of the potential that this historic and great street offers."

Grants will cover up to 60% of repairs and 75% of shopfront improvements, with owners expected to meet the rest of the cost.