Why do some coastal communities rise while others decline?

Abstract

Coastal areas have been hard hit by the recent economic crisis. In addition, due to the introduction and popularity of cheaper foreign holidays they have seen a general decline since the booming years of the 1970s. Clacton-On-Sea, which was a booming and prosperous tourist economy in the mid-20th Century, has seen a reduction in its economic prosperity. The area is not helped by its peripheral location; limited transport links to London; and lack of diversification in the local economy. Despite this, some areas have weathered the storm better than others. Brighton & Hove and Southend-On-Sea are examples of coastal areas that have not witnessed the same magnitude of short and longer term economic decline as areas like Clacton. This paper seeks to understand what explains the differences in economic trends between coastal areas that have done well and areas that have not done as well. The following factors are important: House prices; Recreational facilities; Shopping facilities; and Universities.The following policies are proposed to help Clacton-On-Sea improve its condition:•Increase the percentage of people qualified to degree level to 28.5%. This will help the area see a higher rate of jobs growth.•Double to percentage of people employed in the knowledge industry•Reduce the proportion of people employed in the public sector by establishing other industries.•Implement policies favourable to entrepreneurs to increase the percentage of VAT registrations to at least 10%Implementing such policies will help to regenerate the area; thereby attracting skilled individuals and improving prospects for current residents.