The year saw significant developments that reflected the changing face of the town.
The historic heart of Preston, with its bustling markets and iconic landmarks like the Harris Museum and Art Gallery, remained a focal point of daily life, while new retail developments began to reshape the landscape, offering more shopping and entertainment options for residents.
Education and infrastructure were also on the rise, with the University of Central Lancashire expanding its influence, attracting more students and contributing to the town’s growing reputation as an educational hub. The vibrant student population added to the lively atmosphere in the town, particularly around the university quarter.
1998 was also a year marked by community spirit, with local events and festivals bringing people together. Avenham and Miller Parks provided green spaces for relaxation and social gatherings, while Deepdale Stadium continued to be a source of pride for football fans, with Preston North End enjoying strong local support.
In the following collection, we revisit Preston in 1998 through a series of archive images, capturing the essence of the town during this dynamic period.
9. Preston in 1998
Hundreds of foot-stomping youngsters from schools across Preston will be treading the boards at the annual Preston Schools' Music Festival. Children from Blessed Sacrement School are pictured in rehearsal Photo: RETRO
10. Preston in 1998
Members of Readers Ballroom, Holme Slack, Preston, go dancing in the street with Robin Hood and Maid Marion from Preston Playhouse Panto, 'Robin Hood'. Robin Hood played by Jane Tudor and Maid Marion played by Naomi Smith, were at the dancing school to present trophies to 100% of the members who all gained Highly Commended or higher in their medal tests recently. Photo: David Hurst
11. Preston in 1998
Preston Hockey Club's exciting youth policy has again born fruits with the selection of its top young stars for county duty. Back row, from left: Luke Wilson, Richard Sullivan and Rahul Bamania; middle row, from left: Gavin Phillips and Dipesh Patel; front row, Samuel Sinclair and Adam Wilson Photo: RETRO
12. Preston in 1998
The Preston Schools Music Festival has been going for more than half a century now and this year's theme, Time and Tunes, will see pupils from 33 local primary schools in action at the Guild Hall in Preston. Pictured are pupils from Sacred Heart RC Primary School in Ashton, Preston, who are taking part Photo: RETRO