The politics of pleasure : local government, tourism strategy and provision in Lancashire seaside resorts before and after 1974

Birkett, Steven and Donaldson, Christopher and Peniston-Bird, Corinna (2024) The politics of pleasure : local government, tourism strategy and provision in Lancashire seaside resorts before and after 1974. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

This thesis examines the critical role of local government in the development and transformation of Lancashire’s major seaside resorts: Blackpool, Morecambe and Heysham, and Lytham St Annes. Through a detailed historical analysis, spanning from the early twentieth century to the present, it investigates how local authorities have navigated shifting political structures and evolving tourist markets, helping to shape the fortunes of these coastal destinations. The research contributes to the understanding of English seaside resort evolution by focusing on localised, place-specific factors, particularly the decision-making processes within local governments. Utilising a comparative approach, this thesis analyses the pivotal transitions in governance, especially post-1974, where increased centralisation altered the dynamics of local decision-making. It delineates how these shifts impacted the resorts' ability to adapt to changing tourism demands and socio-economic pressures.A key finding of this research is the demonstration of the long-term implications of local government actions on resort towns. It highlights that effective local governance, characterised by proactive, innovative strategies and strong public-private partnerships, can significantly influence the resilience and regeneration of tourist destinations. Conversely, inconsistent or ineffective local governance can lead to stagnation and decline, as illustrated in the varied experiences of the studied resorts. The thesis also addresses a notable gap in historiography by providing an in-depth exploration of the post-1974 period, a less examined era in the context of seaside resort development in the UK. In doing so, it offers new insights into the complexities of governance and its direct impact on local economies and cultural landscapes.This thesis draws upon a wide range of archival materials from across Lancashire, as well as utilising various digital collections. By combining historical survey data, policy analysis, and contemporary observations in both local and national media, this study not only adds depth to scholarly discussions in history, tourism studies, and public policy, but also offers insights for present and future urban and tourism planning. It highlights the crucial importance of local autonomy and community involvement in the preservation and regeneration of seaside resorts, underscoring the impact of localised decision-making on creating thriving and sustainable tourist destinations.