COSLA backs Paisley 2021

The body representing Scottish councils has backed Scotland’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021.

The Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) gave its backing to the Paisley 2021 bid at its latest leaders meeting on Friday 25 August.

Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021, run by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), aims to use the power of culture to transform people’s lives by creating opportunities for those who live and work in the town as well as in the surrounding areas.

The bid is part of wider plans to help transform the town’s future using its unique heritage and cultural story.

A successful Paisley 2021 bid is expected to generate 4,700 jobs in the area alongside an £172 million economic boost to Renfrewshire over the next ten years. The bid could deliver around 1.7 million attendances at events creating a significant increase in footfall for local traders. It will also attract major infrastructure investment as the current title holders Hull have reported £1 billion of investment from 2013 – 2017.

COSLA President Councillor, Alison Evison, said:  “We’re delighted to be able to support Paisley as Scotland’s bid in the competition for UK City of Culture 2021. The local engagement and energy this has generated, driven by Renfrewshire Council, is a fantastic example of how local government can work hand in glove with communities and local partners for the long term benefit of an area.”

Renfrewshire Council Leader, Iain Nicolson, chair of the Paisley 2021 Partnership Board said: “Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021 continues to gather pace and COSLA’s support demonstrates that it really is Scotland’s bid.

“Winning the title would provide a massive boost to the town and our wider plans. In the long term it would create thousands of new jobs, and allow us to attract massive investment and build a new town centre economy with tourism and creativity at its heart.

“It is great to see Paisley’s bid continue to be embraced across Scotland.”

Paisley is one of five bidders shortlisted for the competition which also includes Coventry, Sunderland, Stoke-on-Trent and Swansea.

The final bid will be submitted at the end of September followed by a judges’ visit in October. The winner will be announced in December.