Episode 4944 (6th December 2000)

Plot
Les confides to Janice that the tarmacing will commence later that day, which Janice and Toyah relay to the rest of the residents. Ken rallies the residents into forming a protest, and investigates getting a preservation order for the cobbles from Northern Heritage. Duggie has 'Save Our Street' t-shirts printed and hands them out free of charge - much to everyone's surprise. The Duckworths prepare for Vera's operation, with the Claytons full of gratitude for Vera's sacrifice. Jack and Vera say their tearful goodbyes as Vera is wheeled into the operating theatre. Natalie has a visitor from the brewery, offering staff and training for the Rovers. Audrey is worried that she'll be blamed for the tarmacing of the cobbles, but is too busy preparing for a visit to Weatherfield by Prince Charles when she will be presented to him. Roy and Hayley have another visit from Peter Hartnell from the fostering agency. He quizzes them on Hayley's transexualism, but Roy's blunt responses, describing Hayley as a misfit, upset her. After the meeting Hayley wants to discuss the issue, but Roy is too distracted by saving the cobbles. The residents form a barricade to stop the tarmackers gaining access to the Street. There is a stand off, with both sides pledging not to give up the fight. Jack is sitting with Vera waiting for her to come round after the operation when she suffers an allergic reaction to the anaesthetic.