Social Exclusion and Crime in English Seaside Resorts: Implications for Resort Restructuring

Abstract

Although it has been documented in the academic and policy literature that some English seaside resorts are experiencing social exclusion, there is a dearth of understanding of its occurrence, nature, and extent. This lacuna is addressed through an examination of two Southwest English seaside resorts: Ilfracombe and Torquay. Drawing on a database made up of separate "domains" of deprivation and on selected crime statistics, this article assesses the occurrence, nature, and extent of characteristics associated with social exclusion within these resorts. Further, the nature of the tourist area and whether this has an impact on crime rates and patterns is also assessed. The study reveals a range of linked socioeconomic problems and crime being experienced, that when taken together relate broadly to social exclusion, and it highlights the extent of these problems. In addition, it demonstrates that their nature and extent is reasonably similar across both resorts and suggests some important theoretical and practical implications for resort restructuring. This study thus makes a theoretical contribution to the fields of social exclusion and resort restructuring, with practical value. By highlighting the occurrence, nature, and extent of social exclusion and crime in the context of postmature destinations, it makes a theoretical contribution to the understanding of the internal dynamics of resort change. In addition, some practical insights into resort restructuring are provided, particularly in relation to its need to be less tourism focused. A future research agenda is suggested that may inform the design of more appropriate approaches to seaside resort restructuring.