Mr Adam, who represents Paisley in the Scottish Parliament, undertook a site tour together with representatives from Skills Development Scotland and Renfrewshire Council to see progress on the £22 million refurbishment project. The visitors met with young people involved with Morrison’s early careers programmes and from its supply chain members, to get a better insight into how apprenticeship schemes have helped them move their careers forward.

The project involves the restoration of the original Category A-listed building, which was constructed in 1882, to create a transformed arts and entertainment venue for the town and wider region.

The current renovation programme is intended to revitalise the internal areas, increasing capacity in the main auditorium and improving the hospitality facilities, as well as creating a new dance studio.

George Adam MSP said: “I am delighted to join Morrison Construction during Scottish Apprenticeship Week, and hear from apprentices in person on their experiences in the programme and how it has given them the chance to develop the skills to succeed in their career.

“Apprenticeships are a key way for employers to invest in their workforce, providing the skills the construction sector needs now and in the future, underlined by our commitment to a skilled workforce set out in the National Strategy for Economic Transformation.”

Cllr Lisa-Marie Hughes, Renfrewshire Council’s cultural spokesperson, and chair of the board of OneRen, who will operate the reopened building said: “Paisley Town Hall has been at the heart of the local community for generations and the work we are doing now will keep it there for many more.

“So it’s great to see our contractors are able to deliver benefits to the community through the project, such as creating job and training opportunities for local young people, and Scottish Apprenticeship Week is a great time to showcase that.

“Once reopened later this year, the town hall will have been transformed into a unique entertainment venue, and home to a year-round programme of events and performances which will help drive new footfall and life to the town centre, day and night.”

David Ewing, managing director for Morrison Construction Building Central, commented: “As a business, we are committed to giving young people opportunities through apprenticeships and training schemes and opening up the tremendous possibilities that a career in construction can give them.

“The Paisley Town Hall project is a fantastic scheme for these apprentices to cut their teeth on, and I hope for those working here it becomes the start of a successful career in our sector.”

Chair of Skills Development Scotland, Frank Mitchell, said: “Designed by industry, for industry, apprenticeships not only help the economy but also create sustainable jobs across all parts of Scotland. These opportunities have been taken by individuals from across society, allowing many young people traditionally with restricted opportunities to progress, who have then gone on to flourish in the workplace.

“These are real jobs backed by employers who contribute £10 for every £1 spent by government, and at the same time apprentices contribute by paying their taxes.

“Creating a diverse and inclusive workforce through work-based learning is benefiting employers as apprentices enable them to adapt and sustain their business.”