New learning and cultural hub to be created in Paisley

Plans have been unveiled to create a new learning and cultural hub on Paisley High Street.A currently-empty retail unit at 22 High St has been earmarked by the council to become a new modern community facility to house the town’s library collection.Despite original plans to demolish the building and erecting a new structure while retaining the existing listed façade, further investigations have revealed a new solution based on a comprehensive refurbishment of the current building, which can be done within the project’s set budget.Once finished, the facility will replace the current Paisley Central Library which will leave its current location next to Paisley Museum in September when the museum closes for a £42m revamp project.Both projects are being delivered as part of a £100m investment in the town’s venues and infrastructure.Designs for the new learning and cultural hub will now be produced by the project team, while further site investigation works will continue over the summer. Construction is expected to start in late 2019.