Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly common tool across creative industries, but its place in local history is proving more controversial.
A Preston-based TikTok account, Old Preston, has sparked debate among local history groups after using AI-generated imagery to recreate scenes from the city’s past.
The account shares short-form videos depicting historical scenes from Preston, often styled to resemble photographs or footage from decades gone by. Rather than using archived images, the content is created using artificial intelligence to generate visuals inspired by the city’s history.
Read more: Preston man’s historical pictures go on display at the Harris
The videos have attracted significant attention on TikTok, gaining views, shares and comments from people who recognise landmarks, streets and eras portrayed.
However, the use of AI has divided opinion particularly within Facebook history groups.
Some critics argue that AI-generated images risk misleading viewers. One person described the content as “rubbish content with images that are entirely made up,” adding that they do not think “a lot of people realise this”.
Others have raised concerns about accuracy and preservation.
Group member Stu Harrison criticised what he described as “the irresponsible, irreverent use of AI,” claiming it is “not only inaccurate brain rot – but is causing significant harm to the environment”
Despite the criticism, many viewers have welcomed the account and believe it helps bring Preston’s past to life.
Group member Nicola Williams said the videos “breathe life into our history”, while another described the posts as “fabulous,” adding: “Obviously not actual footage, but aid viewers to understand how things were different but the same.
Supporters argue that AI can act as a gateway into local history, encouraging people to explore Preston’s past who might not otherwise engage with traditional archives or photographs.
Old Preston account creator Neil White thinks if people don’t like the use of AI, that’s a “valid opinion.”
He said: “If people just think the videos are boring, that’s fine. They’re three-minute snapshots that I do for no other reason than I find them interesting and fun to do. It’s no big deal.
“If people like them, that’s great. If people discover local history, they find interesting, that’s perfect because that was the whole point.”
The debate surrounding Old Preston reflects a wider conversation about how artificial intelligence should be used when representing history and how creators balance creativity, accuracy, and responsibility in the digital age.
Support us: Enjoy reading our history coverage? Help ensure we can keep exploring the history of the city and meeting those behind it too by becoming a supporter of Blog Preston with a membership with monthly, annual or one-off payment options available.
Keep updated: Keep in touch directly with the latest headlines from Blog Preston, join our WhatsApp channel and subscribe for our twice-a-week email newsletter. Both free and direct to your phone and inbox.
Read more: See more history writing and historical news about the city on Blog Preston
Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines
