Project inspired by Gerry Rafferty is up for award

Plans for a major redesign of part of Paisley have been shortlisted for a major award.

Paisley Community Trust’s Baker Street is up for Scotland’s Towns: FutureTown design accolade.

And members of the public can vote for it to win.

Paisley Community Trust recently revealed its plans and vision for a new cultural and creative quarter in Paisley on the site to the rear of the old Arnott’s department store.

And it was dubbed Baker Street in honour of the 1970s hit of the same name by Paisley singersongwriter Gerry Rafferty.

The award is organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership, and shortlisted entries will go on public display at Paisley Town Hall on Tuesday, November 21, as part of the annual Scotland’s Towns conference.

Gary Kerr, chairman of Paisley Community Trust, said they were pleased to be shortlisted and intend to go all out to win.

He added: “This competition is a fantastic opportunity to set Paisley off on winning ways, to continue the feel- good factor and for the town to get into the winning habit.

“Let’s turn our community project into an unstoppable juggernaut towards the finishing line for Paisley to win the UK City of Culture title in 2021.

“Let’s get everyone supporting Paisley Community Trust and Baker Street Paisley.

“Let’s get everyone voting for Paisley to win. That’s what this is all about – making Paisley feel good and become a better place. “It’s a great habit to form.” Phil Prentice, chief officer at Scotland’s Towns Partnership, congratulated all shortlisted entries.

“While Scotland’s towns continue to be impacted by economic, social and technological changes, the applications to this competition show how collaboration and innovation can help communities to take advantage of opportunities and make the most of everything our diverse towns have to offer,” he said.

“I wish each applicant the very best in the competition and in making their town vision a reality.”

Members of the public will be able to vote for Baker Street Paisley to win via an online public vote held during Scotland’s Towns Week, which takes place from November 20 to 26.

Details on how to do this will be released soon.

Culture boost Paisley Community Trust’s Gary Kerr with Jean Cameron, director of the Paisley 2021 bid and Andy Campbell (left) reveal the Baker Street plans, and an artist’s impression of the project (right)