Construction update issued on Paisley Museum transformation

The transformation of Paisley Museum—the first major refurbishment in the building’s 150-year history—continues to progress, with construction expected to be completed by the end of the year and opening now scheduled for 2026. 

Once complete, the redevelopment will create a world-class visitor destination in the heart of the town, bring the historic building up to modern standards to safeguard its long-term future, and attract thousands of visitors to Paisley town centre each year—delivering lasting social and economic benefits for local communities and businesses. 

Renfrewshire Council and OneRen are working closely with construction contractor Kier to expedite progress, while recognising the challenges involved in delivering a project of this scale and significance. 

The project has been complex and challenging, with a number of unforeseen issues only able to be identified when construction was underway. This has meant a revised timetable for the completion of works ahead of fit-out of the building and the opening of the museum will now take place in the second half of next year.  

A joint statement from Renfrewshire Council and OneRen said: “The modernisation of Paisley Museum into a world-class visitor destination is the first major refurbishment in the building’s 150-year history. 

“It is an extremely complex refurbishment and the contractors Kier, have encountered a number of unforeseen issues which have impacted the timeline for completion and by extension, the opening. However, the work being undertaken will bring the historic building up to modern standards, protect its long-term future, and attract thousands of visitors to Paisley town centre each year. 

“Construction is expected to be complete by the end of this year, after which the fit-out phase will begin to prepare the museum to exhibit its outstanding collections of art, heritage and artefacts. 

“We are grateful to all our funders for their continued support as we work together to create a destination that celebrates Paisley and Renfrewshire’s unique place in the world.” 

Following the completion of construction, the fit-out phase will begin, with the newly extended galleries allowing more of the museum’s remarkable items to be displayed than ever before. 

A date for the official reopening will be confirmed by OneRen once construction is complete, with the museum expected to open in the second half of next year.