WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PROM? |
''Dowdy!'' ''Grubby!'' '' Needs to be tidied up!'' were
among the responses to a recent survey of local people's opinions of the promenade in
Sheringham. Most particularly remarked upon was the East End. 44% expressed
dissatisfaction with the general appearance of the promenade, and a further 12% even rated
it as highly unsatisfactory! Some held a more positive view - just 25% of respondents
deemed it to be satisfactory, but 16% viewed the prom as highly satisfactory.
The vast majority was content with access to the prom itself, although only 50% considered
access to the beach to be sufficient. A recurring comment was the poor provision for the
less able-bodied, many elderly and disabled people remarked that they would dearly love to
access the beach but cannot, or that they are able to ''get down but not up'' as the few
slopes in existence are too steep. Ramps would be welcomed, in fact any alternative to the
''worn slippery steps'' at present. Other suggestions included rush mats across the stones
for pushchairs and wheelchairs (just like the olden days) or even a chairlift down the
cliff to the beach. This was echoed by 'non-locals' responding to the same survey, 50% of
whom were satisfied with access to the beach on a personal level, whilst pointing out that
others would find it much more difficult. A clear picture emerged regarding facilities on
the promenade 66% of locals considered the toilets to be inadequate, there are no toilets
on the promenade itself, and 50% of all non-locals agreed. Whilst just over 50% of locals
questioned thought the general level of cleanliness on the prom to be satisfactory, 66%
felt strongly that more litter bins are needed along with more frequent emptying of bins,
more bins for 'dog litter' and closed bins, it seems that this would help with vermin
control, also suggested by many. Opinions were divided over facilities for children, 33%
said that these are adequate at present after all, the whole beach is a playground, but
another 33% felt that more is needed, perhaps a playpark / fun area for when the tide is
in? Donkeys were also suggested, along with better facilities in general such as showers,
changing areas/bathing tents or colourful Beach Huts.
It seems that nearly 50% of all locals questioned had 'no opinion' on the provision of
lighting at night, largely because they consider it to be an unsafe place to go after
dark. Only 10% of tourists were satisfied with the lighting 'Whatever happened to all the
pretty lights?' commented one couple. 66% of locals felt that seating is satisfactory on
the prom, in fact many commented that more seats would only invite more vandalism. This
prompted suggestions for more police patrol, CCTV cameras, and more frequent beach
inspector visits. However 66% of non-locals replied that more seating is needed, how about
a seating area, with old-fashioned deckchairs? A strong need was expressed too for more
safety vigilance and public awareness, in the form of more lifeguard posts and bigger
signs forbidding cycling and skateboarding. "Too much concrete!" was another
much expressed criticism. Some landscaping and an attempt to "get rid of the
weeds", would be welcomed. Beyond this, opinions were somewhat divided. Locals
thought that children's amusements and beachside cafes would be a valuable addition. Some
tourists expressed a need for more places to eat near the beach, especially after 5pm, but
70% voiced positive satisfaction with the status quo. Many view Sheringham and its prom as
a 'typical old-fashioned seaside town', to which 'nothing commercial' should be added. 60%
of non-locals held a satisfied first impression of the prom, and another 20% were even
highly satisfied, a noticeably stark contrast to local opinion. This survey certainly
reveals a need for more facilities and improvements in appearance on the prom, but these
must be sensitively handled to preserve Sheringham's character and avoid over
commercialisation, a delicate and challenging balancing act indeed. Anna Clayton |
|
 |
Teen+ Scene
YOUR Column
YOUR interests. |
This is an easy one if you think about it.
What unusual property do the words FLOUR, TERN, and THIRSTY have in common?
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|