Lecture Notes on Burnley

Overview

• Burnley is a town in Lancashire, England.
• Population (2021): 78,266.
• Located 21 miles north of Manchester and 20 miles east of Preston.
• Notable for its manufacturing and aerospace industries.

Historical Background

Medieval Period

• Originated as farming hamlets with manor houses and royal forests.
• Has held a market for over 700 years.

Industrial Revolution

• Became a prominent mill town, major producer of cotton cloth.
• Growth due to coal mining and the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

20th Century

• Experienced economic difficulties post-World War I.
• Decline in traditional textile industry post-World War II.
• Introduction of motorway network via M65 in the 1980s.

Geography

• Situated at the confluence of River Calder and River Brun.
• Surrounded by countryside and towns like Padiham and Brierfield.

Government and Politics

• Local government shared by Burnley Borough Council and Lancashire County Council.
• Part of the UK Parliament constituency of Burnley.

Economy

• Strong links with Manchester and Leeds.
• Received Enterprising Britain award for economic success.
• Key industries: aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and manufacturing.

Transport

• Served by M65 motorway, several railway stations, and bus services.
• Direct train service to Manchester reinstated in 2015.

Education

• Home to several secondary schools and Burnley College.
• College offers a wide range of academic and vocational courses.

Culture and Attractions

• Hosts the Burnley International Rock and Blues Festival.
• Notable landmarks: Towneley Hall, Singing Ringing Tree.
• Burnley FC, playing at Turf Moor, is a significant local sports team.

Demographics

• Predominantly White population, with notable Asian and Muslim communities.
• Various religious buildings, including mosques and churches.

Climate

• Temperate maritime climate with high humidity.
• Regular precipitation throughout the year.

Notable People

• Includes actors like Ian McKellen, cricketer James Anderson, and former England footballer Jay Rodriguez.