Police were called to reports of the discovery on land near to Festival Park, Etruria, on Sunday afternoon.
A cordon has been put in place across a footpath near the Morrison’s supermarket in the retail park, Stoke-on-Trent Live reports.
Staffordshire Police said: “At this time the remains have not been identified.
“A scene is in place while investigators examine the scene.
“We want to assure the local community that although this is an unsettling discovery, we have a visible presence in the area to investigate, provide reassurance and to listen to any concerns.
“Anyone who may have relevant information can speak to officers, or contact us by calling 101, or via Live Chat on our website, quoting incident number 397 of 2 March.”
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