Located on New Street in the town centre, the Paisley Arts Centre occupies the B-listed former Laigh Kirk which was built in 1738 and converted to its current use in 1987. Run by Renfrewshire Arts and Museums Service, the centre comprises a modern theatre offering a year-round programme of drama, dance, comedy, jazz, popular, classical and folk music. There are also display facilities, together with a bistro, coffee shop and bar.
Built as the New Burgh Kirk on the T-plan by local masons, James Baird and John Hart, this was Paisley's second church after its 13th century Abbey. Dr John Witherspoon (1723-94), who signed the American Declaration of Independence and became President of Princeton College, was the minister here between 1756 and 1766.