The maps illustrate the changes that have taken place in the town centre since 1700.
In general, it is obvious that the map presenting the town centre today is far more residential in comparison with the one which illustrates the same place in 1700. The leisure facilities have changed dramatically, and there are less green areas.
In 1700, the town centre was more rural, with a Market Square located right in the middle. A hotel was situated on the left of the square, while the church was situated on the right. To the right of the church, there were stables and two big houses. In addition, Goode Farm occupied the top centre, whereas Steggle Farm was located in the bottom left-hand corner. Opposite Steggle Farm, there were several shops. To the right of them, there was a house.
Today, a great deal has changed. The Market Square and the church remained the same, but hotel next to it has been expanded considerably. The stables have been replaced with a block of flats, and there are more houses, but they are smaller. Instead of Goode Farm, there is a car park now. Steggle Farm was removed. The row of shops has been extended, and the house in St Peter’s Lane has been replaced with a supermarket.