In this round-up of borough eyesores we highlight 15 of the worst and longest-running examples, although you will read that there is hope that at least some of them will have been struck from this shaming roll call next time round.
It speaks volumes about the changing face of the hospitality industry that so many of these places are derelict pubs, clubs and restaurants.
9. Grimes Arcade, Wigan
It has the potential to be an architectural gem again, but at present Grimes Arcade, linking King Street and Library Street in Wigan town centre, is still living up to its name. There are plans to revive it with an up-market coffee bar as one of the features on the mixed-use ground floor, flats on the upper storeys and a comedy club in the basement. But the scheme has gone quiet again for now Photo: MA
10. Former Dover Lock Inn, Abram
You might think that idyllic, canalside hostelries are recession-proof, but it's a long time since The Dover Lock Inn on Warrington Road, Abram, welcomed throngs of guests. In recent years it is not just the elements that have caused the premises' grim demise but also several arson attacks Photo: Michelle Adamson
11. Former Baby Elephant, Gathurst
Like the Dover Lock in Abram, what used to be the canalside Navigation pub in Shevington didn't work out in the end and now it's several years since its successor, the Indian restaurant called Baby Elephant, closed and has quickly fallen into decay. However it was recently revealed that it has been put up for sale by its current owner. Let's hope that signals a new beginning. Photo: Michelle Adamson
12. Grand Hotel, Wigan.
It's not long since The Grand Hotel in Dorning Street, Wigan, celebrated its centenary. Around that time there was much talk that it was going to figure large in the Old Courts' ambitious arts plans for the town centre. But nothing has happened since and it is believed that complicated covenant issues have been partly to blame for its continued disuse and dereliction. Photo: Michelle Adamson