Tourism’s economic impact in Renfrewshire has increased by 24 per cent since 2023, reaching an estimated £307.6 million.
The figures were included in an update on the council’s Tourism Plan presented to the Leadership Board on Wednesday 16 September 2026.
The report said the Renfrewshire Tourism Network now includes approximately 200 contacts, with more than 300 recorded business support interventions, referrals, introductions and networking opportunities.
The council’s cultural infrastructure programme, worth £113 million, includes the completed Paisley Town Hall and Paisley Arts Centre projects, as well as the Paisley Museum refurbishment, which is nearing completion.
Work is also continuing on tourism projects outside Paisley.
Castle Semple Visitor Centre and dark-sky activities were listed among the rural tourism developments, alongside external repairs completed at Steeple Hall in Kilbarchan in February 2026. An interior phase is expected to begin in early 2027.
At Cornerstones in Lochwinnoch, funding has been secured from Historic Environment Scotland and the National Lottery Heritage Fund to develop the project.
The Johnstone Heritage Trail is expected to be delivered in autumn 2026 as part of the Johnstone Town Centre Vision.
The council also held approximately 250 meetings with tour operators and travel trade buyers at VisitScotland Connect 2026.
A two-year Discover Renfrewshire campaign is due to begin in mid-September, with marketing and communications activity planned across the area.
A review of the Tourism Plan is expected to begin in late 2026, followed by a refresh of its priorities and actions.