UK City of Culture 2021 title within reach for Paisley

The winner of the bid will be announced tonight in Hull

Published 7th Dec 2017

The title of UK City of Culture 2021 is within touching distance for Paisley.

The Renfrewshire town is up against 4 other UK cities including Swansea and Sunderland.

The winner will be announced tonight in Hull, they're the current holders and have seen ÂŁ1 billion in investment over 4 years.

The bid aims to change the town's fortunes by creating the equivalent of 4,700 jobs over the next decade and boosting the local economy by ÂŁ175 million, leaving a lasting legacy for all of Renfrewshire

It's also hoped the title can bring a programme of major events and world-class culture, bringing an estimated 1.7 million attendances in 2021 - with a million visitors and tourists spending ÂŁ43 million.

The group promise to spend ÂŁ113 million to transform the town centre, venues and attractions and plough in investment that will transform the high street and bring visitors to Paisley for years to come.

The Paisley 2021 team go on to say involvement in culture is proven to be good for people's health and well-being and the group will offer culture for all, and create opportunities for everybody in Renfrewshire to access those benefits.