Trust launches bid to build cinema in Paisley High Street
The organisation behind scrapped plans for an arts and entertainments venue in Paisley has announced it now wants to build a new cinema in the High Street.
Paisley Community Trust had hoped to develop the land behind the former Arnotts department store into a theatre and cinema hub named after Gerry Rafferty’s famous song Baker Street.
But earlier this year, it was announced Renfrewshire Council will instead build new social housing on the land in a bid to bring more residents into the town centre.
Park Lane Developments LLP, the company which owns the land, is planning to partner with a social landlord to turn the undeveloped north half of the site into 60 flats.
Now, trustees of PCT say there is sufficient evidence to support the business case for a High Street cinema.
It adds that plans are still at an early stage but the location is likely to house at least three screens, a café bar and box office.
Gary Kerr, chairman of Paisley Community Trust, said: “Since the announcement that Baker Street was not to go ahead, the Trust was overwhelmed by messages of support from our members and the wider community.
“A recurring request from all age groups was for us to consider focusing on just cinema within the town centre. So, we’ve decided to do just that.
“Earlier this year we attended a Paisley town centre visioning meeting organised by Renfrewshire Council and it was evident that cinema can play a vital role in the regeneration of the town and the High Street.
“As part of the Baker Street business planning work, we developed a robust business case for cinema and its viability. Based on our extensive research, there is sufficient demand and opportunity to ensure sustainability.
“Our cinema will be very different from a Showcase or a Cineworld and will be more like the Grosvenor in Glasgow’s Ashton Lane.
“We have a site in mind but are keeping our options open at the present.
“We have shared our initial thoughts with the council and are encouraged with the response.
“The Trust will now develop the business case and hope to announce our plans in more detail at our AGM in November.”
Mr Kerr added that the cost the project was not yet known, and that funding sources are still being investigated.
Renfrewshire Council deputy leader Councillor Jim Paterson said the local authority is committed to the ongoing regeneration of the town centre and is investing heavily in the town hall and museum while supporting new housing initiatives aimed at bringing people back into the town centre to live.
He added: “I’m pleased and encouraged to see Paisley Community Trust continue with their good work.
“There is a clear gap in cinema provision in Paisley town centre and the opportunity to deliver one for the town is exciting.
“The council look forward to working with Paisley Community Trust and to support them in their plans.”
Based on our extensive research, there is sufficient demand and opportunity to ensure sustainability