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 are shocking. They also feature countless buildings now wiped clean from the face of the cityscape.
Take a look and see if you can remember them...
13. Demolished Preston
The 1975 demolition of Loxham's Showrooms in Fishergate, Preston Photo: National World
14. Demolished Preston
Old Walton Street in the Avenham area, pictured in 1961. Clearance brought the demolition man's hammer on 380 properties, including two pubs. The area was set to be opened out for new houses and flats, and along this route, the southern relief road from London Road to the railway station Photo: National World
15. Demolished Preston
Still standing amongst demolished properties in front of the Harris College is the empty shell of the old Star Cinema in Fylde Road, Preston. This picture was taken in 1963 Photo: National World
16. Demolished Preston
The desolate scene in Grayston Street in 1972. The backs of houses in Livesey Street, off London Road, are on the right. The area was scheduled for demolition but when this image was taken residents still lived in unfit properties in Livesey Street, whilst the homes in Grayston Street remained empty Photo: National World