The reconstruction of Paisley Museum has been completed, marking a major milestone in a £68.7m redevelopment project aimed at creating a world-class visitor destination.
Originally scheduled to reopen in 2022, the project has faced multiple delays, with construction on the A-listed main building and Coats Observatory pushed back due to unforeseen issues. Renfrewshire Council has now confirmed that the museum will move into the next phase, with new exhibits being installed ahead of a planned public reopening in 2026.
The redevelopment represents the first major refurbishment in the museum’s 150-year history. Once complete, it will feature around 100 displays, many developed with input from local people, alongside modern galleries on every floor and double the space to showcase the museum’s collections. New additions include a red glass entrance, panoramic extension, outdoor garden, café and picnic areas.
The museum transformation forms part of a wider investment programme by Renfrewshire Council to increase visits to Paisley. This includes upgrades to Paisley Town Hall, the town’s arts centre and a new library, with the overall museum budget increased following an additional £12.5m investment agreed in December 2024.
Once reopened, the museum will be operated by Renfrewshire’s leisure and cultural charity OneRen.
Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, Renfrewshire Council’s spokesperson for culture and chair of OneRen, said she was delighted construction works have finished. She described the refurbishment as an opportunity to create a space that tells the stories of Paisley’s history and its people, and one that will attract visitors, support local communities and help boost the local economy.