Easington Colliery: place of decline

Question 1

Summarize why Eastington Colliery can be described as a place of decline?

Question 2

Why did the coal industry decline in Easington?

Answer 2

• Energy shift- a transition to oil, gas and nuclear energy reduced remand.
• Global competition (cheaper imports from Australia and South Africa)
• Government closure of mining pits.

Question 3

What were the socio economic consequences of the decline in the coal industry in Easington?

Answer 3

• Unemployment and economic collapse- no industry to replace mining.
• Unemployment soars above 30% in the 1990s
• Young people migrate = population decline.

Question 4

How did these economic consequences impact the community?

Answer 4

• High crime rate/drug abuse
• Families rely upon welfare benefits.
• Death of the high street as shops close down
• Derelict housing reduces property value
• Lack of investment as a consequence (spiral of decline)

Question 5

What strategies are being attempted to try to improve the area?

Answer 5

• Government and EU funding
• Tourism and heritage initiatives.