Rebecca Ham

Blackpool

Exploration

For centuries Blackpool was a quite hamlet by

the sea. Then during the 18th century it
became fashionable for the well to do to
travel to the seaside during the summer.
From then on visitors came to Blackpool;
however Blackpool remained a very small
place until 1781. A private road to Blackpool
was built, making it much easier to reach.

Involvement

In the early 18th century, the local population

saw the opportunity for tourism and erected
buildings such as hotels and shops which
helped Blackpool’s population to increase from
500 to 2,500 in fewer than 50 years.
Meanwhile Victoria Terrace and St John’s
Market were also built. Amenities improved
and in Blackpool gained gas light and a piped
water supply.

Development

A Promenade was later built along the sea

front, and the North Pier opened; the winter
gardens and pleasure beach followed. A
new railway station opened, meaning the
number of tourist increased dramatically.
Rebecca Ham

Consolidation

In the early 19th century tourism was the main

part of the economy and grew at a phenomenal
rate. Lots of expensive attractions such as theme
parks, theatres and shops were opened and
tourism was at its peak.

Stagnation

By the 1960’s Blackpool started to become unfashionable, and

people were attracted elsewhere on cheaper more
adventurous holidays. Hotels became older and unattractive,
and tourist numbers started to fall. Rowdiness became a
problem and businesses started to fail.

Regeneration

At the beginning on the 21st century, an

initiative named ReBlackpool was launched aimed
to regenerate the town. Attempts were made to
modernise the resort and attract tourist to the
area.