There’s plenty to discover about the North Devon coastal town of Ilfracombe, though appearances can be deceiving. At first glance, its stunning natural landscape serves as the primary draw, making it clear why this destination has emerged as such a beloved tourist magnet. However, scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll find something rather more contentious: the growing unease among residents over an ongoing housing ‘crisis’, its declining high street, and the general sentiment that it is gradually losing its identity.
Ilfracombe boasts an extensive array of facilities, including a gorgeous coastline and the renowned South West coastal path. Then there’s the harbour area featuring an abundance of retail outlets and restaurants. Those interested in heritage will appreciate the Bronze Verity. This Damien Hirst creation has earned considerable respect from the community, regarded much like a monument since its initial unveiling in 2012.
Devon Live’s Abigail Neep interviewed visitors to gauge their general perception of Ilfracombe, with one commenting: “It’s beautiful and so different to where we live in County Durham. The weather is better, everyone is so nice.
“It’s very cheap for the tourists and public transport is accessible. Even when it’s raining there’s things to do inside, like the aquarium.”
But what gradually became evident was how differently residents view their town. They look past the seasonal excitement and instead provide a much harsher assessment. Housing difficulties, anti-social behaviour, and a declining high street were particularly concerning.
As Abigail described: “Ilfracombe was a popular Victorian seaside resort and boasts tall, often five-storey buildings that retain the town’s Victorian character, but they’re also proving to be a part of the problem.”
Michelle, who owns View Apartments in North Devon, said: “A big problem is the Victorian housing. The councils are keen to keep them for that Victorian look, but a lot of buildings are empty and derelict. The five-storey houses have no lift and can’t house the elderly or infirm; they’re just not suitable for families who want two to three bedrooms and a bathroom.
“They’re also too much to run, when people buy them they haven’t got the money to maintain them. They also have single-glazed windows which is bad for the environment because they let all of the heat out, they’re not efficient housing.”
Car parking remains another widespread worry, whilst living costs continue to force locals away. There have been incidents of youngsters causing criminal damage, alongside antisocial behaviour connected to drink and substance abuse.
“The high street is sometimes just not safe,” one local cautioned. And Abigail experienced firsthand the fear that regularly grips the community. She confessed: “No longer than 15 minutes after parking my car, I saw a bust-up in the park near the monument, where three men had a fist fight.”
Sector Inspector for Ilfracombe, Rich Preston, recognised the anti-social behaviour and said they are doing their utmost to address it: “We are aware of a number of reported issues relating to street drinking and anti-social behaviour in Ilfracombe over recent months. The town centre remains our neighbourhood policing priority and we are determined to help ensure that Ilfracombe is both a safe and pleasant place to live or visit.”
The consequence of such disruption has left the high street “run down” and “crumbling”, whilst a local shop owner described Ilfracombe as “wasted potential”. “Ilfracombe High Street is an opportunity wasted, so much is bare, it’s shocking. Nobody is taking advantage of this place,” they said. “Everything is notoriously closed, no-one bringing new ideas, we need a breath of fresh air.”
Despite its shortcomings, the Ilfracombe community remains robust, and locals say they all unite if anyone requires assistance. “The people are all so friendly and supportive, and there’s a real sense of community,” said Darren from St James’ Tea Room. Another local, Linda, who has resided in Ilfracombe for 25 years said: “Overall I like Ilfracombe, the community is what makes it, it’s friendly, kind and caring.”
North Devon Council responded to the criticism, stating: “The community in Ilfracombe is incredibly strong, with many groups and individuals who are active in improving people’s lives in the town. It would be wrong to say that the community has been diminished by people who have moved to the area.”