Blackpool is a place with a reputation for attracting negative stories. Whether it’s memories of failed family holidays, hotel fires, or encounters with controversial events, many people tend to focus on the town’s shortcomings.
During my initial visit to Blackpool, a bartender at a local pub summed up the town’s vibe by jokingly stating, “There’s not much happening around here,” as he served me a £3 pint.
One notable issue in Blackpool is the prevalence of empty shops. Walking just a short distance from the bustling attractions near the Tower reveals rows of abandoned units, some visibly deteriorating while others remain closed to shield against the lack of visitors. The stark transition from vibrant arcades to desolate streets littered with debris is quite striking.
According to data from the Centre for Cities, Blackpool has the third-highest rate of vacant shops in the country, with 17.6% of them closed. In certain areas like Central Drive, this figure rises to 30%. Additionally, Blackpool boasts the second-highest number of abandoned buildings, equating to one for every 45 residents.
Local residents are particularly frustrated by properties like the proposed £7.6 million easyJet Hotel that never materialized and the long-abandoned Odeon theater. Newly elected Labour MP Chris Webb, who won partially on a platform addressing these issues, expressed his concerns about the abundance of vacant properties in the town.
Webb highlighted the deprivation in areas like Bloomfield, labeling it as the most impoverished location in the county. The presence of boarded-up shops in such areas has a negative impact on the overall appeal of neighboring districts like Waterloo Road and Bond Street.
Efforts are underway to address these challenges. Renovation work was noticeable at the Odeon building during my visit, with a banner suggesting a family entertainment venue would open in June 2026. A task force has been established to target landlords of long-term vacant properties, and investments are being made to revamp retail spaces and create green areas in Central Drive. The implementation of ‘High Street Rental Auctions’ allows the council to lease empty shops for five years, potentially revitalizing struggling areas.
While these initiatives may not completely resolve Blackpool’s deep-rooted issues with deprivation and crime, they aim to bridge the gap between different facets of the town.
Despite its challenges, Blackpool remains a popular summer destination, attracting visitors with its traditional seaside charm.
However, the town undergoes a significant transformation in the winter months. The combination of abandoned properties and bleak weather creates a stark contrast to the lively summer atmosphere, making it less appealing to tourists.
Recent data from Trainline suggests a rising trend in winter rail trips to Blackpool, indicating a newfound interest in off-season visits to the town. This surge in winter tourism aligns with Blackpool’s efforts to boost visitor numbers during quieter periods.
The affordability of Blackpool as a winter
