Surveyor in Blackpool

What’s it like living in Blackpool?

Exploring Blackpool’s Architectural Diversity: A Guide for Homebuyers

Blackpool’s architectural landscape has a rich tapestry of styles. From the elegant Victorian and Edwardian homes of North Shore and South Shore to the Gothic-inspired buildings in Marton and Layton, the town presents a wide range of properties with unique character.

In properties with historical significance, such as the stunning Victorian terraces along King Edward Avenue in North Shore or the Edwardian villas found in the avenues of South Shore, a surveyor can provide valuable insights into the building’s history, preservation efforts and any structural modifications that may impact its authenticity or value. Similarly, in Marton and Layton, where Gothic-inspired architecture is prevalent, surveyors can identify unique architectural features, potential maintenance challenges and any signs of deterioration that require attention.

Blackpool: What to Consider Before Buying

Blackpool is a unique coastal town in northwest England. While known for its vibrant tourist scene, it also offers year-round living. Here’s an overview to help you decide if it’s the right fit:

Positives:

• Lively Entertainment: Even during the off-season, Blackpool offers entertainment options beyond traditional tourist attractions. The Winter Gardens hosts various performances throughout the year and the town boasts a vibrant pub scene with live music nights.
• Seasonal Job Opportunities: Blackpool’s tourism industry offers a wealth of job opportunities during the summer months, particularly in hospitality and service roles at amusement parks, hotels, cafes, pubs and seasonal stalls. These positions can be a good option for temporary or supplemental income.
• Strong Community Spirit: Blackpool fosters a close-knit community feel, particularly outside of the summer season. Many residents are long-term and there’s a good chance of encountering familiar faces. This can be a positive aspect for those seeking a friendly and supportive environment.
• Coastal Getaway: Blackpool’s extensive coastline is a major draw for residents. The sandy beach provides a space for relaxation, walking, dog walking and other recreational activities. You’ll never be far from the calming sound of waves and the refreshing sea breeze.
• Green Spaces and Local Attractions: While Blackpool’s promenade is famous, there’s more to explore. Stanley Park, widely considered one of the UK’s best urban parks, offers gardens, lakes and a boating lake. The Fylde countryside provides opportunities for scenic walks and outdoor pursuits, while nearby towns like Lytham St Annes offer a quieter pace of life.
• Affordable Housing: Blackpool’s property prices are generally lower than the UK average. This affordability can be a significant advantage for buyers, particularly first-time homebuyers or those looking to downsize.

Negatives

• Seasonal Changes: Blackpool’s economy revolves around tourism and the town’s atmosphere transforms dramatically between seasons. The buzz and vibrancy of summer gives way to a quieter pace during the off-season. Many shops, restaurants and cafes that cater primarily to tourists close their doors. While some attractions remain open year-round, there are significantly fewer options for entertainment and leisure activities outside of peak season.
• Job Market: The town’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, resulting in a significant number of low-skilled, seasonal jobs in hospitality and service industries. This can lead to challenges for those seeking full-time, year-round employment with higher wages and career advancement opportunities. Blackpool also has a higher rate of unemployment compared to the national average.
• Tourist Behaviour: Blackpool’s popularity as a tourist destination can bring noise and litter issues, particularly during peak season. Stag and hen parties can be a source of disruption for some residents. Additionally, the influx of tourists can strain local services and infrastructure, such as public transportation and waste collection.
• Coastal Winds: Living on the coast comes with its own set of weather patterns. Strong winds off the Irish Sea can be frequent, particularly in the winter and spring. These winds can make even sunny days feel much colder and may be a consideration for those who dislike blustery conditions.
• Limited High-Paying Jobs: Blackpool’s economy is geared towards tourism and service sectors. This means that professional opportunities outside of these sectors, such as those in finance, technology or engineering, may be scarce. While there are some professional jobs available, the overall selection may be more limited compared to larger cities or towns with more diversified economies.

Crime Rates in Blackpool

Blackpool has a high crime rate: It’s the most dangerous major town in Lancashire and ranks poorly compared to the rest of the county and England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Crime rate significantly worse than Lancashire average: Blackpool’s crime rate in 2023 was 151 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 87% higher than the Lancashire average of 81 crimes per 1,000 people.

Important Note: It’s crucial to remember that crime statistics can fluctuate over time. Always research the most up-to-date figures for a well-rounded understanding of the area’s safety.

Where is the best place to live in Blackpool?

Blackpool offers a variety of neighbourhoods, each catering to different preferences. Here’s a breakdown of some popular areas:

• Poulton-le-Fylde and Lytham St. Anne’s: These sought-after areas sit just outside Blackpool’s boundaries and offer a quieter pace of life with a more affluent feel. Poulton-le-Fylde has pretty villages, excellent schools and a strong sense of community. Lytham St. Anne’s is known for its award-winning beaches, scenic coastline and elegant Victorian architecture. Both areas offer a good mix of detached and semi-detached homes, with options ranging from Victorian villas to modern luxury apartments.
• Bispham, Cleveleys and Fleetwood: These established residential areas are popular choices for families and those seeking a more traditional seaside community vibe. Bispham offers a good mix of housing options, including bungalows, terraced houses and modern estates. Cleveleys boasts a relaxed atmosphere with a sandy beach and a popular promenade. Fleetwood, a former port town with a working fishing dock, offers a unique character and a mix of terraced housing and modern developments.
• Blackpool Town Centre: Living right in the heart of the action appeals to some. Apartments and modern developments have sprung up in recent years, offering convenient access to Blackpool’s entertainment scene, shops and promenade. However, the town centre can be busier and noisier than the suburbs.

Variety of Housing:

Blackpool caters to a range of tastes and budgets. You’ll find period properties like Victorian terraces and grand Edwardian houses, particularly in areas like South Shore. For those seeking modern living, there are plenty of new-build estates and contemporary apartment blocks throughout Blackpool.