Unknown Shoppers statue at Curzon Street, Burnley

“Officer Report Application Ref: PA/2026/0075 Proposal: Proposal to install the "Unknown Shoppers" statue on an elevated level plinth to be sited to the existing grassed area. Location: Land at Bankfield/Curzon Street/Parker Street, Curzon Street, Burnley, BB11 1DF Applicant: Burnley Borough Council…”

“Background and Proposal 2.1 The proposal seeks planning permission for the installation of the ‘Unknown Shoppers’ statue, an original public artwork commissioned in 1994 to mark the 700th anniversary of the granting of Burnley’s Market Charter. It was originally installed at the Junction of Curzon Street and St James’s Street. The statue, approximately 1.80 metres in height, is proposed to be placed upon a 1.00 metre-high square plinth measuring 1.20 metres across.”

“The application is presented to committee as it is the Council’s own application. 1. Site and Surrounding Area 1.1 The application site comprises a prominent grassed public open space situated at the junction of Bankfield, Curzon Street and Parker Street. The site was formed in 2018 following the demolition of the vehicular ramp previously serving the Market Hall, resulting in an open landscaped area.”

“The main issues relevant to the consideration of the application are: • Principle of development • Visual impact (design and appearance) in relation to its setting • Heritage and Cultural Considerations • Public Realm, Safety and Accessibility • Environmental and Landscape Impacts • Highways Safety Principle of Development 8.2 The reinstatement of the statue aligns with Local Plan priorities for strengthening the town centre’s cultural and public realm offer.”

“Design and Visual Impact 8.4 The statue’s design reflects Burnley’s heritage, having been commissioned to commemorate the Market Charter anniversary. Its restoration and repainting to its original condition along with the reinstallation on a newly elevated plinth will reinforce its prominence and visibility within the streetscape. The height and scale are proportionate, and the open setting allows for unobstructed public appreciation.”

“Publicity 5.1 There has been one representation of support for the proposal with the following comments: “I wish to support the application. It will be great to see the iconic statue reinstated in Burnley Town Centre and will help to bring shoppers to the high street and make the area feel appreciated and looked after. The public benefits public artwork brings is beneficial for everyone who visits Burnley town centre.”

“That the application be approved subject to conditions.”

“The development shall be carried out in accordance with the submitted application form received 19 th February 2026 and the following submitted Drawings:”