A Journalist’s Response to a Controversial Survey on New Brighton
A journalist based in Liverpool has strongly criticized a recent survey conducted by Which?, which placed a seaside town in her region among the worst 20 in the country. The survey, carried out by the consumer advocacy group, evaluated over 3,800 individuals’ experiences of UK seaside destinations from the past year. This provided valuable insights into public perceptions of coastal towns across the nation.
The study focused on several key factors, including the quality of beaches, scenic beauty, food and drink options, accommodation, tourist attractions, and overall value for money. Based on these criteria, Which? compiled both a top 20 and a bottom 20 list of seaside destinations. New Brighton was notably included in the bottom 20, alongside other well-known locations such as Bognor Regis, Southend-on-Sea, and Blackpool.
Emilia Bona, the content editor at Liverpool Echo, decided to visit New Brighton herself to assess the situation firsthand. She spent the day in the Wirral-based town, determined to understand why it had received such a low rating. Her overall score for the town was just 52%, which she found deeply disappointing.
Emilia expressed her frustration, stating: “Honestly, my visit to New Brighton this week left me furious that it could ever be scored so poorly—especially in the categories of scenery, food and drink, and shopping options. The views are fantastic, and it’s a classic coastal town with all the elements you could ever want from a traditional British seaside destination.”
She described the dramatic scenery during her visit, noting the industrial and striking views that accompanied the tide. Emilia emphasized that while New Brighton’s outlook might not appeal to everyone, she believed the town had a unique character. The presence of shipbuilding yards, cargo ships, a lighthouse, and crashing waves contributed to its distinctive charm.
The journalist also shared her personal experience of visiting the area multiple times before, and she strongly disagreed with the survey’s findings. Emilia praised the vibrancy of New Brighton, highlighting the bustling shops, cafes, and restaurants she encountered. She noted that each establishment she visited had a warm and familiar atmosphere, making the town feel welcoming and lively.
In addition to the commercial offerings, Emilia celebrated the independent shops, street art, local pubs, and community activities available in New Brighton. She argued that the town offered a rich cultural experience that was often overlooked in the survey.
Her final assessment of the seaside destination was one of outrage, as she felt the ranking was unfair and did not reflect the true essence of New Brighton. Emilia believes that the survey failed to capture the town’s unique qualities and the positive experiences of visitors who appreciate its traditional charm and community spirit.
