CINEMA could soon be back in Paisley town centre for the first time in decades after a charity unveiled a new vision for a multi-million pound High Street hub.

Paisley Community Trust (PCT) has revealed it is in discussions about snapping up the Bargain Buys site with a view to turning it into a community-focused cinema by 2023.

It’s envisaged the ambitious project, expected to cost up to £12m, could deliver a £40m economic boost to the area.

PCT has drawn up plans to create five screens – each seating between 40 and 160 people – as well as a restaurant and a rooftop cafe bar, while it is hoped Bargain Buys will continue to trade on the ground floor.

The Secret Collection museum store in the basement of the building would remain in place.

The plan is being teed up as ‘Project One’ of the Paisley Vision for 2030 – a 10-year blueprint unveiled by Renfrewshire Council, the Scottish Government and Scotland’s Towns Partnership.

In February, PCT signed a strategic partnership agreement with the council so they could work together to deliver the new cinema – something which has not been seen in Paisley since the closure of The Kelburne in 1997.

Gary Kerr, PCT chairman, said: “We think this is going to be a massive shot in the arm for Paisley because the town has been bereft of cinema for years.”

PCT is now looking at ways of paying for the project, with options such as the National Lottery, Scottish Government regeneration funds, the Scottish Investment Bank and money from the council all being considered.

Council leader Iain Nicolson said: “We’re happy to be working with PCT on their plans for a new High Street cinema which could complement the work we are already doing to transform Paisley’s future by investing in our historic venues and outdoor spaces.”

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