Photographer Martin Parr caused a stir over 40 years ago when he visited the Northern seaside resort of New Brighton. His collection, New Brighton, The Last Resort, aimed to capture a moment in time and challenge societal perceptions of social classes. The photographs showcased both the best and worst days at the seaside, depicting day trippers enjoying picnics amid litter and dilapidated amenities that characterized the town on the Wirral peninsula.
Parr’s images stirred controversy as viewers from London and the South East were confronted with a reality they were not accustomed to seeing. Parr, now 72, reflected on the criticism he faced, noting that the litter was a stark contrast for those unaccustomed to such scenes. Despite the backlash, Parr maintained that he was simply portraying New Brighton as it existed at the time, unapologetically engaging with the resort by the River Mersey.
Born in Epsom, Surrey, in 1952, Parr’s affinity with the north-west of England inspired his radical shift to document New Brighton in the early 1980s. Opting to use color film, he aimed to encapsulate the essence of the town’s decay and tradition in his photographs. He explained that his work sought to capture the unraveling moments of everyday life against a shabby backdrop, creating a timeless portrayal of a seaside resort in flux.
Despite initial resistance to his depictions, New Brighton has evolved significantly over the years. Sean Martin, chairman of New Brighton Coastal Community Team, acknowledged the town’s transformation since Parr’s visit. He noted the emergence of a rejuvenated New Brighton, attributing its revival to the post-Covid influx of visitors seeking solace by the sea. With an extensive beachfront, thriving hospitality sector, and historic landmarks like Vale Park and the Dome Of Home church, New Brighton has evolved into a vibrant destination that stands as a testament to the faith of its successive generations
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