I started my PhD in 2021, right when we slowly started to transition to the post-pandemic climate. As we could not yet meet in person, I started the PhD as a 'distant' student. Over the past few years, I've travelled back and forth to Paisley to do fieldwork, visit spaces and document the changes in the town.

I actually came to Paisley in 2017 to pursue a Master in Cultural Diplomacy and International Events. During my time at the MA, I wrote my thesis about the concept of the Creative City, and the opportunities inherent to community-led spatial design to bring about this holistic urban ecology. I enjoyed writing about it so much that when this PhD opportunity came about I applied instantly, and was lucky enough to get in!

This PhD is not funded by the Council or any Scottish charity organisation. It is independent research performed by a student at the University of the West of Scotland.

I am very excited to take my passion on decaying spaces further after my PhD! While I have no concrete ideas yet on where to go next, my dream would be to work for an organisation where I can further map decaying spaces and be involved in fighting for their responsible re-use.