General Discussion

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2570386/Pictures-Blackpools-proud-hotels-sit-boarded-sad-reminder-seaside-towns-faded-glory-days.html

I don't see why? Do you?

We are where we are with regard to the railway line. And we can either see doom and gloom because of it or see it as a golden opportunty. Just think how much 'free' publicity, both nationally and internationally Dawlish has achieved because of what has happened. And do you know what? I actually think that the publicity will increase the numbers visiting the town especially when the line is working again and we can access the beach and the sea wall walkway. 

I'll quote a letter in this week's Gazette. It's from Pete Wilson, of Willo's Sandwich Bar, Piermont Place.

"There is a lot of doom and gloom among some members of the community with regard to the railway being out of use, the sea wall being closed and the mess on the beach etc etc. My view is that there has never been a better opportunity for Dawlish, despite the terrible damage that has been caused by the storms. The profile of Dawlish has gone through the roof, not only nationally, but internationally. We are a town that is well and truly on the map and we are the focus of attention for all manner of politicians for a host of reasons. I call upon Teignbridge Council, Dawlish Town Council and the town centre manager to seize this chance to invest in Dawlish, create new attractions and maintain the town's new found profile"    

Re those Hotels ..not surprised.  Talk to any teenager and they say they are going abroad on holiday .dont ask where they get the money!

Lynne you are right everyone has now heard of Dawlish and plenty will want to come and look.

Yep so much 'doom and gloom' ..in town, but Dawlish does that best... could be a good name for that pub lol

In fact i was talking to the owner of Willows only last week and i commented that it could be good for Dawlish with all the National and International news. I agree that it could be a good opportunity for Dawlish. I only posted that link to show how the populous choice in where they go for thier holidays. True we do not have any hotels of any size like in Blackpool here in Dawlish. However is will all depend on how long it takes to do the repairs to affect the Spring/Summer trade.

Things have changed when i first came to Dawlish there where Hotels and loads of visitors you couldnt get breakfast or lunch in a cafe they where busy serving holliday makers, but we still get a bite of the cherry.  The deverstation and TV coverage has certainly raised our profile is it possible we could go back to the those days maybe just maybe.