In 2008, London Road was a very different place to the street you see today. A few failing pubs, a Cash Converters, and a couple of furniture stores were among the businesses on the street which hadn't yet been boarded up. Its main use was as a route for buses to drive in and out of Liverpool city centre - oh, and TJ Hughes, which has since disappeared.

The Islington road used to be central to the city's textiles history and home to a wide range of shops, as well as 27 pubs and two cinemas. 26 of the pubs and both cinemas have gone.

However, in the years following, London Road grew into what I believe is now one of the city's best streets. No longer a home for disused buildings blemished with wooden windows and weathered business logos, it's been transformed into a proud high street with dozens of unique independent businesses.

Yes, it's still a bit rough........

© Liverpool Echo