BLACKPOOL’s HIDDEN TREASURES
How to regenerate England’s struggling seaside town?
Blackpool, the Fylde district of Lancashire holds the position for the finest sea-fronts. Since the industrial revolution. It is ranked on the top 10 places for the most deprived towns in the country.
The journal delves into the causes of this decline, such as economic downturns, social inequities, physical decay, and severed transportation links, highlighting the absence of a national strategy for this town. As a result, it advocates for locally-led initiatives to revive struggling seaside towns in England such as Blackpool, beginning with strategic priorities and followed by in cooperating green spaces and markets that bring the whole community together for a flouring Blackpool.
Keywords: deprived, decline, absence, revive, locally-led initiatives
Noth Pier Main Entrance>
BIRDS HAVE BEEN IMPLICATED IN THE POTENTIAL DECLINE OF SEAWATER QUALITY AT THE
NORTH PIER, RESULTING IN UNSATISFACTORY
OUTCOMES FROM BACTERIAL CONTAMINATION TESTS ALONG THE SHORELINE.
Main entrance to the North Pier. Fish shops, bars and arcades.
The beach serves as the sole provider of blue infrastructure within the Promenade area, enabling both locals and tourists to fully utilise the space.
Seagulls and starlings find the North Pier to be a perfect nesting spot.
CLOUDY SKIES, THUNDERSTORMS, WET SAND AND FOG; THE COLOUR MOSS GREEN, SANDY BROWN AND BLUBBLY PINK IS WHAT I ASSOCIATE WITH NORTH PIER BLACKPOOL - A SENSE OF EERIENESS AND CALM.
There are two main types of building classifications: Statutory listings, which encompass nationally important buildings on a list overseen by Historic England, and Local listings, which involve buildings and other assets listed by local councils that have local significance. The North Pier in Blackpool is a Grade II Listed Building, as designated by Historic England. Colour has been an essential aspect of the town’s history and has helped to stir memories for both residents and visitors.
Laura worked with a variety of community members, friends, and family to gather stories about different places, which she then employed to create a distinctive colour palette. The ten colours and related stories that emerged from this endeavour presented a fresh perspective on Blackpool, influenced by the input of everyone she had conversed with.
“Looking down, she watches the waves crash through the gaps in the wooden boards. The voices of her sisters waft by on a gentle breeze, hidden from view somewhere behind her. Her mother’s hand tightly clasps hers, fingers sticky and pink from the remains of a sweet treat. They stroll together along the promenade, passing deck chairs and stalls, all the way to the very end. The expansive blue waters extend before them, and a sense of liberation envelops them on this first day of summer” (Paint the Town 2022).
A local resident links her childhood memories of the North Pier with the colour pink - reminiscing about balmy days enjoying candyfloss with her mother.
CHATERISTICS OF BLACKPOOL
MOMENTS OF TRANQUILITY
PEOPLE OF BLACKPOOL
ECOLOGY OF BLACKPOOL
Blackpool North Pier has been a highly sought-after attraction for tourists worldwide, having garnered significant attention throughout its existence. The pier has also hosted several notable events, among them the production of the BBC television series “Antiques Roadshow.” The exquisite antique items featured on the show were discovered on display at various antique stores located on the South Pier Promenade.
Blackpool is a vibrant coastal town renowned for its energetic ambiance and thrilling amusements, yet amidst the crowds and flashy arcades, moments of serenity can be discovered. The salty sea breeze is invigorating, while the gentle wind softly ruffles your hair. The warmth of the sun caresses your skin, and the scent of saltwater fills the air, accompanied by the sight of starlings. Likewise, areas seemingly frozen in time with their man-made structures exude a tranquil atmosphere that is undisturbed by the bustle of modern life.
Access Fylde Coast has gained recognition for its inclusive and welcoming approach towards individuals with physical, sensory, learning disabilities, and mental health conditions, who, along with their families, contribute an annual £3 billion to the economy in the UK.
A mutually beneficial association between mussels, algae, and seaweed thriving on the steel piles of North Pier can be applied as a valuable cradle to cradle design principle in my proposal. By utilizing mycelium to construct a textured surface on non-loadbearing structures, we can facilitate the growth of these fragile marine ecosystems in the Blackpool area, contributing to their restoration.
Stakeholders of Blackpool
Historical Blackpool collage of how the small town as developed over the years but the function remains the same.
A town for tourists. A town that negects its local residents.
VARIOUS SOCIAL STRATA COEXIST WITHIN A CONFINED URBAN INDUSTRIAL AREA.
THE ESSENCE OF BLACKPOOL IS EMBODIED BY VARIOUS ITEMS PLACED THROUGHOUT THE TOWN, INCLUDING BESPOKE HOTELS, AIRBNB ACCOMMODATIONS, AND NEARBY INNS.
< Blackpool has a significant number of accommodations and facilities dotted along the Promenade
Blackpool is a coastal town located in the north-west of England, which is renowned for its three piers: North Pier, Central Pier, and South Pier. Each pier has its own distinctive features, offering visitors various advantages and disadvantagesW.
North Pier, being the oldest of the three piers, has a classic Victorian feel that provides a traditional and nostalgic atmosphere compared to the other piers. It boasts a theatre that hosts live shows and entertainment, making it an ideal option for a family-friendly night out. However, it is the smallest of the three piers, with fewer attractions compared to the others. Additionally, it is located further away from the town centre, making it less accessible for some visitors.
Central Pier is the most popular of the three piers, offering a broad range of attractions and activities. It features a large amusement park with rides and games suitable for all ages and a large Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Nevertheless, being the most popular pier, it can become crowded and busy, particularly during peak tourist season. Some visitors may also find the amusement park rides too intense or unsuitable for young children.
South Pier, being the longest of the three piers, offers a good range of family-friendly activities. It includes a large indoor play area that is ideal for children, a bowling alley, and arcade games. The pier also provides a variety of food and drink options, including a seafood restaurant with stunning sea views. However, it is located furthest away from the town centre, making it less accessible for some visitors. Some visitors may also find that it offers fewer attractions compared to Central Pier.
Overall, each pier in Blackpool has its
own advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately depends on personal preferences and what visitors are seeking from their seaside experience. Some may prefer the more traditional and nostalgic atmosphere of North Pier, while others may opt for the bustling and popular Central Pier. For families with young children, South Pier may be the best option due to its range of family-friendly activities. Regardless of which pier visitors choose, they are guaranteed to have a memorable time experiencing the unique charm and attractions of Blackpool’s piers.
The Piers of Blackpool are three historic piers located in the seaside town of Blackpool, England. The first pier, North Pier, was opened in 1863 and was followed by the Central Pier in 1868 and the South Pier in 1893.
These piers have played a significant role in the tourism industry of Blackpool, attracting millions of visitors each year. They offer a range of attractions and entertainment such as amusement arcades, bars, restaurants, theaters, and rides.
The piers have also faced many challenges over the years, including damage from storms and fires. However, they have been rebuilt and renovated several times to ensure they continue to be an integral part of the town’s heritage and culture.
Overall, the Piers of Blackpool have become iconic symbols of the town’s seaside resort heritage and continue to attract tourists from around the world.
The vista from the summit of Blackpool Tower draws attention to the dearth of green areas within the town’s urban landscape.
Landmarks of Blackpool
THE CENSUS 2021 DATA INDICATES THAT INDIVIDUALS LIVING IN THESE REGIONS ARE CONFRONTED WITH VARIOUS SOCIOECONOMIC OBSTACLES SUCH AS POVERTY, RESTRICTED OPPORTUNITIES FOR EMPLOYMENT, EDUCATION AND SUBSTANDARD HOUSING CONDITIONS.
The heightened activism in the local community is focused on safeguarding and promoting the heritage of Blackpool’s seaside.
Located on the northwest coast of England, Blackpool is a town with a unique way of operating. It heavily relies on tourism and entertainment, which are highly seasonal and dependent on the weather. As a result, residents have adapted by working long hours during the summer months and taking on different jobs or businesses during the off-season. However, this reality can have a significant impact on mental health, with studies showing that people living in deprived areas, such as Blackpool, are more likely to experience mental health problems.
According to the recent Census, Blackpool is one of the most deprived areas in England, with specific areas ranking as the most deprived in the city. Residents in these areas face numerous socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, limited access to employment and education, poor housing conditions, and health inequalities. Additionally, Blackpool has some of the highest rates of substance abuse in the country, which can further contribute to mental health problems.
Furthermore, the town has the lowest provision of green spaces per person of any local authority area in England, with only 2.2% of the total area designated as green space. This lack of access to green spaces can significantly impact the health and well-being of Blackpool’s residents. Increasing investment in the creation and maintenance of parks and green spaces in the town could greatly benefit the local population.
Despite these challenges, local stakeholders are enthusiastic, engaged, and positive about the future of Blackpool’s economy. It is crucial for the town to capitalize on this momentum and fully leverage this opportunity.
Clear blue skies, red and yellow trimmed details are the colours that adorn the attractions of Blackpool. The ferris wheel located on the Centre Pier - one of three piers of Blackpool.
Carousel, arcades, aquariums, and live shows are duplicated along the promenade.
The tourism industry in Blackpool, which was once prosperous, has been rapidly declining in recent years, causing severe repercussions for the local economy and community. Previously known for its lively seaside attractions and bustling holiday vibe, the town now represents neglect and abandonment.
The Pleasure Beach is often considered a symbol of the town’s tourism industry and its history as a beloved coastal destination, which holds cultural significance. Nevertheless, for the people of Blackpool, the town is more than just that -it is a place of heritage and belonging.
One of the main highlights of the park is its assortment of roller coasters, which comprises some of the swiftest and highest coasters globally. The Big One, for instance, is among Europe’s tallest and quickest roller coasters, attaining speeds of up to 85 miles per hour and towering over the park at a height of 213 feet. Other noteworthy coasters comprise the Icon, a fast-paced ride that blends conventional coaster features with contemporary technology, and the Nickelodeon Streak, a wooden coaster that has been in operation since 1933.
A town intended for the entertainment of tourists, yet neglects to cater to the requirements of its residents.
Pleasure Beach
Water Park, South Pier
THE DECINE IN BLACKPOOL'S TOURISM AND NEGLECT OF ITS LOCAL COMMUNITY HAVE SEVERLY AFFECTED THE TOWN AND ITS RESIDENTS.
Pleasure Beach
< Blackpool Pleasure Beach demonstrates how natural systems are gradually overtaking the man-made structures.
Poulton-le-Fylde
PRESTON
Ribble
Little Bispham
Fleetwood
Rossel Lane Cleveleys
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© mamunarashid 2023
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