Take a walk through Eccles Shopping Centre and the first thing you'll notice is security shutters - lots and lots of security shutters.
The unoccupied shop units are a stark illustration of how the heart of the town is yet to capitalise on the growth being seen in other parts of Salford, such as Monton, Media City and Greengate.
But, if you look closely enough, the green shoots of recovery can just about be made out. In October last year planning permission was granted for a £50m block of flats on the old Vauxhall car showroom, while work is ongoing on a 23-storey apartment block on Church Street.
