SPOTLIGHTS could be turned on Burnley’s landmarks as part of a bid to regenerate the town’s central shopping streets.

Landmarks such as the railway viaduct, Burnley Mechanics, the library, St Peter’s Church and the former council offices in Nicholas Street should all be illuminated, according to a retail study.

Fifteen iconic buildings have been placed on the lighting list by shopping experts Camlin Lonsdale, including the town hall and popular venues the Sparrow Hawk Hotel in Church Street, The Falcon Inn at Cow Lane, the post office and bus station.

Executive councillors have been shown the draft of a town centre public realm strategy, with Camlin’s findings, which is being opened to the public this month and next as part of a consultation exercise.

Council environment spokesman Adam Lockett said: “This strategy will help to guide investment and form the basis for determining planning applications.”

Better crossing points around the town centre have been mooted, as retail experts believe the current ring road creates a ‘hostile’ barrier for shoppers and workers.

Several distinct quarters would be created, under the study’s masterplan, reflecting the evolving face of Burnley town centre.

The civic quarter revolves around the library, courts and police station, a green quarter centres on the Top o’th Town conservation area, old Burnley College, St Peter’s and the old grammar school, the business district around Kingsway and Bank Parade, the retail heart and a new education and enterprise sector focusing on the new campus in Princess Way.