UK's seaside town branded 'hellhole' set for £23m overhaul to bring tourists back
This seaside town previously been described as a 'vulgar hellhole' with a 'brown sea', has now confirmed plans for a £23 million investment.
Skegness, in the East Lindsey District of Lincolnshire is splashing the cash in the hope of attracting tourists again. In the 19th century, Skegness was a seaside hotspot that drew visitors from all over the country. Still, in recent years, a severe lack of investment and infrastructure development has deterred new visitors.
In 2023, Skegness was ranked last in Which? Magazine 's British seaside resort ranking. Visitors gave Skegness just one star for its scenery and noise levels, and two stars for its food, drink, shopping and attractions.
Despite its overwhelmingly low scores in multiple categories, Skegness consistently performed well in one area. Most visitors were impressed with the parking availability.
The Editor of Which? Travel, Rory Boland, said following the 2023 poll: "Clacton, Skegness, and Southend all received one star from visitors for the lack of peace and quiet, and some visitors complain that the boisterous atmosphere can tip into feeling unsafe."
Rory added: "That's a shame, because what Clacton, Skegness, and Southend offer is exactly the sort of seaside break many of us want." However, he concluded with a call to action for the town, saying: "Big beaches, big entertainment, and small prices. More should be done to help them level up and become first-class holiday resorts."
However, things are now set to change for this coastal town, as East Midlands Railway (EMR) has announced an impressive £23 million investment in the tramlines leading into Skegness. On April 15, Baggy Shanker, Member of Parliament for Derby South, officially unveiled the new EMR Class 170 train at an event at Derby station.
These improvements and refurbishment projects are set to increase travel to Skegness on the Nottingham to Skegness via the Grantham line. The journey, which will take just under two hours, will cost merely £4.05 if booked in advance.
The new and improved trains feature comfortable seats, refurbished toilets, and new flooring. Each carriage is also equipped with power sockets, USB charging sockets, and a bike storage area.
The Class 170 fleet of 44 is to undergo these makeovers. The next train in the programme is scheduled to be refurbished next month. Following that, a newly renovated unit is expected to join the expanding railway network each month.
Will Rogers, Managing Director of East Midlands Railway, said: "This refurbishment is more than just a lick of paint, it's a complete transformation that puts our customers first.'
Rogers continues: "We've focused on creating an environment that is comfortable and functional – and it's just the beginning. Over the next year, customers will start to see real, tangible improvements across our network."
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