Iconic seaside resort once called 'mini Blackpool' now a ghost town

The colourful shop signs hark back to a different age - when the town was referred to as the Welsh version of Blackpool. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)Iconic seaside resort once called 'mini Blackpool' now a ghost townIt was called a 'mini Blackpool' in its heyday but it's looking hauntingly quiet today.ByLois McCarthy10:32, 10 May 2026For countless people across the UK, for generations Porthcawl was the seaside retreat that shaped summer holidays of youth. Time was spent enjoying ice creams on the shore, setting up caravans at Trecco Bay, and waiting eagerly for rides on the helter skelter at Coney Beach Pleasure Park. During its golden era — especially the 1940s, 50s and 60s — Porthcawl became known as "Wales' mini Blackpool". Each summer, the renowned Miners' Fortnight brought the town to life, packing guesthouses, caravans and the seafront. Traditionally held during the final week of July and opening week of August, it represented the year's pinnacle for many. Now, though, the picture looks remarkably different. A midweek visit to the town is greeted with an almost eerie stillness. Barriers occupy spaces where vibrant shop windows previously attracted visitors, shutters remain closed, pavements largely deserted. Much of this downturn stemmed from Coney Beach Pleasure Park's closure last year. Following over a century of trading, its proprietors announced that the historic amusement park would remain shut permanently — the end of an era for residents and devoted visitors alike. Thousands expressed cherished memories and sorrow over the loss. Among them were Bill and Susan Emment, long-time beachgoers who had previously shared their heartbreak with WalesOnline. "I spent all my childhood down here and I used to love going to the fair with my grandparents," Susan said. "There are so many memories here, and I still can't believe it's gone." Local traders also felt the impact. Kym Bateman, who has operated donkey and pony rides on Porthcawl's beach for over 40 years, described the closure as "absolutely devastating", reported WalesOnline. Yet there could be light at the end of the tunnel as the seafront prepares for a major transformation. Following years of consultation between Bridgend County Borough Council and local residents, proposals for a significant redevelopment of Porthcawl's waterfront were ultimately submitted in April 2026. The hybrid plans detail up to 980 new homes, a new spine road connecting the Eastern Promenade to Sandy Bay and the regeneration of 43.6 hectares of coastal land, combining former leisure sites with open green spaces. The vision also features a new lido and gym, landscaped public areas, shops, coastal defences, and a variety of leisure attractions designed to revitalise this once-thriving seaside town. 1 of 10Although it looks a little bit ghostly these days, for generations — particularly during the mid-twentieth century — it was a go-to holiday destination as miners and their families left the Valleys to spend time at the coast. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)2 of 10For those who have not visited Porthcawl since they were young, pictures of boarded up shops and tourist spots, will be a sobering sight. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)3 of 10Some of the buildings look almost unrecognisable. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)4 of 10While Porthcawl has played a role in many childhoods, the regeneration plans mean this time next year we may be seeing a very different side of the seaside town. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)5 of 10It is understood that submitted plans will be considered for approval by Bridgend County Borough Council’s planning department in the coming months – with potential for the work to begin in 2027 if they are taken forward. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)6 of 10In the wake of redevelopment plans, many locals have shared fears over a potential loss of the town's identity with many preferring to see a new plan that focuses on tourism and leisure opportunities, as opposed to residential development. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)7 of 10For now, it looks like more things remain closed off to the public than open - a sad time for this beloved spot. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)8 of 10Some of the shops and businesses at Coney Beach in Porthcawl look to have closed as the area is planned to be redeveloped (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)9 of 10The town is gearing up to be part of a mixed-use development that could feature a new housing estate, retail, business facilities, and a new primary school, as well as a number of recreational and leisure opportunities. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)10 of 10In 2025, following the closure of Coney Beach Pleasure Park, Porthcawl councillor Elen Jones acknowledged that it marked "an end of an era" for the town, but said she was hopeful of a bright future for the area in the wake of the closure. "We look forward to working with the community, government, businesses and investors to ensure that the future of Porthcawl is vibrant, successful and sustainable," she said. (Image:Rob Browne/WalesOnline)FollowMirrorFacebookX (Twitter)MORE ON