Some buildings were knocked down to make way for new ones, open spaces were developed and roads were widened and altered.

The COVERED MARKET was built in 1870 - and had to be rebuilt when it collapsed during construction work.

Creating market halls was common in large industrial towns in the north-west and was partly to help deter traditional open-air market activities such as cock-fighting. Preston was one of only a few towns to create an open-sided covered market.

The HARRIS MUSEUM AND LIBRARY was built in the late 19th century with money bequested by wealthy solicitor Edmund Harris. Architect James Hibbert, who also designed the west wing of Preston Royal Infirmary and Fishergate Baptist Church, built the imposing museum in the Greek revival style. It is now a listed building.

Buildings beside the old Victorian town hall were demolished to create the MILLER ARCADE, which has a date stone of 1899 above an entrance. It remains largely unchanged today, aside from the removal of old turrets and chimneys.

The CENTOTAPH was erected on the flag market in 1926. The memorial was designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, grandson of Sir George Gilbert Scott who designed the old Town Hall. Hundreds gathered to watch the unveiling of the monument, which replaced a Boer War memorial.

Finally, planners want to bring both sides of FRIARGATE into the revised conservation zone. Named after a 13th century monastery, the street was home to Preston's first prison, Catholic church and chip shop. With evidence of original shop fronts dating back over decades, planners reckon there is plenty worth protecting.

>> 'Damaging' buildings in Preston

>> Which buildings in Preston should be protected?

See our special picture spread on this feature in Monday's Lancashire Evening Post

>> Vote on Preston's most unsightly building or area