Sean Batty has spoken of his pride in Paisley and the buzz among Buddies about the town’s future.
The television presenter helped lead celebrations as his home town was unveiled as Scotland’s Town of the Year.
He chatted with businesses which had been part of his family’s life – from the furniture store where his granny bought him a bed, to the butcher’s that he used to live next door to.
And the popular STV weatherman shared his excitement about the future, with unprecedented levels of investment in the town fuelling renewed confidence – highlighted by its success in the Scotland Loves Local Awards.
Sean said: “It really feels as though there’s been a massive shift in Paisley in the past few years.
“People are no longer just talking about what Paisley used to be. They’re talking about what Paisley is becoming because there’s so much going on here.
“We’ve a steep history, but there’s also lots of buzz and noise because a lot of work’s being done. Something’s happening around every corner.
“Change takes time, but it really feels as though things are starting to change. There are exciting times ahead. Paisley’s going to be a hard act for others to follow. It’s becoming a different town.”
Sean has been an ambassador for Scotland Loves Local for a number of years, working with awards organisers Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) on its mission to encourage people across the country to back businesses in their communities.
Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s chief officer, joined Sean in the Town of the Year celebrations, meeting local businesses and community leaders.
She praised the work of Paisley First Business Improvement District, Renfrewshire Council and other groups, highlighting her hopes the title can be a catalyst for continued positive change – showing other communities what can be achieved.
“The more attractions and activities a town offers, as we’re seeing in Paisley, the more confidence it gives to local businesses that they can thrive,” Kimberley said.
“Independent, niche, and new businesses are what make a place unique. They give people reasons to visit, to live there, and ultimately to invest.
“Being named Town of the Year is more than just a title — it’s a motivation to keep improving and moving forward.”
Judges in the Scotland Loves Local Awards awarded Paisley its Town of the Year title after being impressed by the critical point reached in the town’s “resurgence”.
It includes the council-led investment of more than £100m in the town’s cultural assets, including the ongoing transformation of Paisley Museum – set to reopen next year (2026) – and the completed revamps of Paisley Town Hall, Paisley Arts Centre and the new Paisley Central Library.
The authority is also constructing the new £85.5m Paisley Grammar School Community Campus while backing other projects including the masterplan to create new social and private housing in the town’s West End, improving its public space and links with the town centre.
Work by Paisley First to champion businesses and draw people into the towns with promotions, events and initiative was also a critical part of the title success.
