Bright future for the Leyland Motors worker statue on Hough Lane!

The multi-million-pound improvement programme will see an extensive refurbishment to Leyland Market and the creation of a new town square along with the development of a new business hub with town-centre residential properties.

Public realm and highways improvement works are also planned in Leyland town centre, including Hough Lane to offer modern and attractive public use areas.

The statue, which is a Leyland landmark, under the entrance arch of the Leyland Market area sheds light on the rich heritage of the town, with Leyland Motor’s former North Works site once situated on what is now the site of Leyland Market.

Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, Leader of South Ribble Borough Council said, “The Leyland Town Deal is a once in a generation project and while this work will allow for Leyland to thrive for the future, we want to make sure don’t lose sight on what is an incredibly rich area of industrial heritage.

“The statue is a much-loved landmark for the people of Leyland and acts as symbol for all those who have worked in Leyland and who have made the town the success it is. I am so pleased that we can confirm that the statue will be retained and that what it represents will be at the heart of all we do with our improvement works.”

It is said that the idea for the statue was taken from a black and white photograph circa 1920s photograph which shows hundreds of men in flat caps, suits and overalls coming out of the Leyland Motors site after a busy day.

The statue was recently removed for short time to repair its foundation. As the works progress, it is likely the statue will need to be removed again and stored elsewhere for a period before being reinstated. This is to ensure the statue is not damaged during the period of the works.

More detail will be shared on this as the project moves forward.