There are success stories, including Coneys, a designer store, and independent food and jewellery shops.

But a debate is going on about how to restore the town to its former glory. Should the emphasis be on revitalising retail, or should there be a greater focus on other sectors, such as leisure?

Anne Dorrian, the council’s leader, says she is “grieved” to see so many empty shops, but denies suggestions that the town centre is dying.

She is quick to list a number of local events the authority has put on and argues that shopping habits have changed, especially since the pandemic.

The answer, she believes, is to find a “new identity” for Boston – a “unique selling point”.

“Is it a cafe culture, a traditional craft centre, more to do with leisure or should we build on our heritage assets?” she asks.