And, while regular city-goers may bemoan the seemingly-constant roadworks and building projects going on these days, rest assured that ‘twas always thus, as demonstrated by these incredible pictures.
I hardly recognise these retro scenes of Preston in various states of ruin and regeneration. They also feature countless buildings now wiped clean from the face of the cityscape.
Take a look and see if you can remember them...
5. Demolished Preston
A typical scene in run-down Preston, with abandoned cars just sat waiting to be eventually scrapped. In the distance you can see the towering spire of St Walburge's Church Photo: National World
6. Demolished Preston
This image, captured in 1983, shows demolition of the old flax and cotton mill on Lord Street, Preston - standing in the shadow of the Guild Hall complex. To this day the area remains undeveloped Photo: National World
7. Demolished Preston
Rubble left on the pavement from a property on the corner of Birley Street in Preston in 1975 Photo: National World
8. Demolished Preston
One of the slum clearances in 1963, where properties were being demolished in Preston Photo: National World