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Paisley Museum Reopens After £68.7M Transformation Into a Cultural Powerhouse

A historic landmark reborn with glass, light, and ambition. This isn't just a museum—it's Paisley's bold step into a thriving cultural future.

The image shows a room with a wooden floor, a table with a statue on top of it, a wall with a door,...
The image shows a room with a wooden floor, a table with a statue on top of it, a wall with a door, a cupboard, boards with text and images, lights on the ceiling, and a window. This room is part of the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

Paisley Museum Reopens After £68.7M Transformation Into a Cultural Powerhouse

Paisley Museum has reopened its doors after a £68.7 million transformation. The historic venue, first built in 1871, now boasts a bold red glass facade and modern extensions filled with natural light. The renovation aims to celebrate the town's heritage while offering far more to visitors than before.

The museum was originally created by and for the people of Paisley, reflecting their passion for learning and the natural world. Over 150 years later, the extensive upgrade has doubled the exhibition space and added new facilities. These include a café, museum shop, learning area, archive centre, weaving studio, and digital interactive displays.

The project was led by Renfrewshire Council and funded through partnerships. Two key buildings—the A-listed main structure and the Coats Observatory—have been carefully restored. Plans also include a new wing linking the observatory to the main site, complete with a telescope for public stargazing.

Even before reopening, the museum won the prestigious AR Future Project Award. The revamped space is expected to attract 125,000 visitors annually, operated by OneRen, a local cultural charity. Leaders see the project as both a cultural milestone and an economic boost for Paisley.

The museum's redesign preserves its 19th-century roots while introducing contemporary features. With expanded exhibits, modern amenities, and international recognition, it now stands as a major attraction for the region. The investment is set to bring long-term benefits to Paisley's cultural and economic future.

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