We’ve got to keep this party going . . .

Council says Paisley can be top visitor destination

Big smiles Pupils from Williamsburgh Primary School in Paisley, from left, Ellie Thomson, Charley Hendren, Adam Jack, Joshua Murray, and Aaron Campbell Arts chiefs have announced a £5million boost for street parties and festivals across Renfrewshire.

Renfrewshire Council has stumped-up cash to make major events bigger and better.

The pot will be used to bolster the line- up of popular bashes – including the Paisley Food and Drinks Festival.

Morag Macpherson, head of cultural services at Renfrewshire Leisure, said: “The funding which has been secured for cultural and creative development opens up exciting opportunities.

“It will enable us to collectively explore new ideas, develop partnerships with leading cultural organisations beyond Renfrewshire, and create a real buzz around what we can achieve together.

“This covers everything from supporting emerging talent to creating the right conditions for local cultural organisations to flourish and grow.”

Local authorithy chiefs have earmarked the cash to help secure a legacy for the failed City of Culture bid.

They say Paisley is still on track to become a top visitor destination, despite missing out on the coveted crown.

More than 20 new events and projects are under development, including new festivals and collaborations with artists.

Extra funding will be ploughed into existing celebrations, including the annual Halloween bash.

Events have attracted growing numbers of visitors to the area from outside Renfrewshire – with a target to attract 400,000 tourists annually over the next four years.

Tourism bosses say this will help coin in £5.5million.

Council leader Iain Nicolson insists he is is committed to investing in the arts.

He said: “This shows how Renfrewshire is bucking the trend in supporting the creative sector at a time where the potential of culture and creativity to make a difference elsewhere is under pressure.

“It’s also a great example of how we are moving ahead with the vision and ambitions set out in the bid – to turn the area into a creative hub and be renowned for our cultural offering.”

The council has already unveiled £ 100m infrastructure spending to overhaul venues and outdoor spaces.

Paisley Museum is in-line for a £42m upgrade, while the town hall art arts centre will also benefit.

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