Plans to create Buddhist temple in centre of Burnley

The place of worship for learning and meditation could be opened in a vacant carpet store at Brunside Mill.

A Bhuddist monk behind the plans hope the Parker Street building could also become a centre for prayer and teaching away from the hustle and bustle of the town.

Gen Kalsang Paljin, of Keighley-based Buddha Land Kadampa Centre, said in a report: “The proposal is for a change of use to a Bhuddist temple with ancillary cafe and shop.

“The overall aim is to provide a spiritual refuge where everyone – Bhuddists or non-Bhuddists, can feel part of a supportive community, find inspiration and encouragement to develop harmony and peace within their lives.

“The Buddhist temple would provide a facility for daily prayers and meditation and the opportunity for people to practice the Buddhist faith through study on two programmes of Kadampa Buddhism.”

The centre would provide general information on Buddhist philosophy and meditation for people in the town.

A shop planned for the building would also sell small artefacts and books compatible with Kadampa Buddhist philosophy.

Non-alcoholic drinks and hot and cold food could also be sold at a cafe proposed as part of the venture.

Plans are to run meditation classes and a learning programmes to study Buddhist texts and views.

Mr Paljin, who runs meditation classes in Curzon Street, said the temple would be a “place of quietness”, adding: “A Buddhist centre is by nature a peaceful place and people who come are developing inner peace and contemplation.

“The shop would create very little noise.”

A planning application has been submitted for a change of use from retail to a place of worship and shop to Burnley Council.