11/07/2008 03:24:00
According to a recent government report, Blackpool is taking measures to 'diversify' the type of tourists it attracts.
Liz Meek, regional director of the Government Office North West, says Blackpool needs to attract "more visitors from social classes A and B" - understood as the upper middle class and middle classes. She also recommends extending the length of Blackpool's holiday season, reinforcing the town's housing market, reducing unemployment and boosting its transport system.
The recommendations came after the town's failed attempt to win the bid for the UK's first "super casino" last year. However, Blackpool has been suffering decades of touristic decline as holidaymakers have slowly abandoned its famous seaside attractions for cultural hubs and warmer climates elsewhere.
Regional agencies and the central government are now working together to deliver change for the people of Blackpool. But what does it mean for steadfast Blackpool tourists - perhaps those outside classes "A and B"?
Claire Smith, who along with her husband Mark runs two five star properties in Blackpool, told the Blackpool Gazette, "I'm certainly not saying we are decrying the people from social classes C and D and they're absolutely welcome.
"But Blackpool's visitor numbers have been declining and if we can open our doors to a wider spectrum, that's what we have to do to take Blackpool forward to be the ultimate seaside destination."
The chief executive of Manchester City Council, Sir Howard Bernstein, was recently appointed to a part-time post as chairman of the team at ReBlackpool - the town's regeneration agency. They have already disclosed a 15-year masterplan dedicated to revamping the resort town, featuring a design centered around the Golden Mile and Blackpool Tower.