Burnley Business Improvement District (BID) and Burnley Council have announced an extension to the operating hours of the Town Warden scheme, reinforcing their shared commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming and supportive environment across Burnley.
Under the enhanced schedule, two Town Wardens will now be on duty over a 12-hour period, seven days a week. This extended coverage ensures the town centre and surrounding areas benefit from longer periods of monitoring and reassurance. The wardens act as the eyes and ears of the town, helping to deter anti-social behaviour, responding rapidly when needed and providing a visible, approachable presence. Each warden is first-aid trained, ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) qualified and fully connected through Burnley’s radio network to enable fast communication and coordinated response. The wardens also act as helpful guides within the town, offering directions and practical advice to visitors and shoppers, further enhancing the overall experience and supporting the town’s visitor economy.
The strengthened Warden service forms a key part of Burnley BID’s wider strategy to support businesses and improve the visitor experience. Alongside this, the BID’s consumer-facing brand Discover Burnley delivers a diverse programme of annual events including Burnley Live, Burnley Believes Christmas Lights Switch On, the Burnley Vintage & Performance Car Show and the monthly Artisan Markets – all aimed at driving footfall, fostering community pride and contributing to a vibrant town. Complementary initiatives such as the Burnley Business Crime Reduction Partnership and the Customer Service Awards further underpin efforts to create a safe, cohesive and thriving Burnley.
Jason Cothliff, Burnley BID Manager, said: “Extending our Town Warden hours is another significant step in strengthening the support we provide across Burnley. The wardens play an essential role in keeping people safe, assisting businesses and organisation whilst providing a visible, reassuring presence. They offer vital support to local businesses, organisations and their employees and by helping to create a safer, more welcoming environment this in turn has a positive impact for businesses when it comes to attracting and retaining employees. This increased coverage reflects our commitment to listening to the needs of businesses and continually enhancing the support we deliver.”
Councillor Lubna Khan, Burnley Council’s Executive Member for Economy & Growth, said:“ Our Town Wardens already do a fantastic job, and extending their hours will strengthen the support they provide across the town centre. They are often the first point of contact for businesses and visitors, offering reassurance, practical help and a friendly, familiar presence. We know how much people value that visibility on the streets, and the extended hours will help build on the positive work the wardens already do, particularly as we head into the busy Christmas period at Charter Walk, when footfall is higher.”
The Town Warden scheme is jointly funded by Burnley BID and Burnley Council via recent UKSPF funding.
BIDs are defined geographical areas where businesses and organisations collaborate to invest in agreed services, projects and special events. They are funded through a levy based on rateable value and operate in most towns and cities across the UK. More information can be found at https://burnleybid.co.uk
