Chapter one · The rise
Where it began
It was in the 1830s that James Atherton, a retired Liverpool merchant, recognised the opportunities that New Brighton offered, with its extensive views and miles of flat beaches.
Buying up 170 acres of sandhills and heathland, Atherton built a hotel and ferry, developing it as a desirable residential resort for the gentry.
Chapter two · The golden age
567ft of ambition
By the turn of the century, New Brighton had become a leading tourist destination, far more popular than Atherton could have envisaged, rivalling other resorts including Blackpool.
New Brighton's own 567ft high tower led the list of numerous attractions, plus the world's largest open-air swimming pool.
Chapter three · The fall
Forgotten, unloved
New Brighton continued to flourish as a resort following the last war, but with the coming of cheap package holidays, it began to lose its appeal.
Many attractions disappeared including the tower building, fairground, ferries and pier, and the town slipped into decline as tourist numbers dwindled. For many years, local business and community leaders campaigned for New Brighton's renaissance.
Chapter four · A new renaissance
Then & now
Rockpoint Social stepped in with a privately-funded three-point regeneration strategy: commercial revitalisation, public realm improvements and a seasonal calendar of animation and large-scale events.
Drag the slider to see The James Atherton on Victoria Road before and after restoration.
Chapter five · What's next
A cultural heart
Street-level greening, new street furniture, Victoria Quarter signage, an open-air gallery of murals - and space for the next wave of independents.
