SEA SICK
We live in UK’s ‘best kept secret’ seaside town – but fear it’s becoming a tourist trap… our bubble has burst
Residents fear tourists have discovered the hidden gem
LOCALS who say their home was once the UK's best kept secret are terrified it's turning into a tourist hotspot.
The once sleepy seaside town of Saltburn in North Yorkshire used to be a "bubble" of people but now residents say visitors are flooding in.
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Businessman Gavin Smith said he's noticed the town becoming busier ever since the pandemic.
He said more people have "discovered" the hidden gem - and not just those who live in the UK.
While most visitors come from Leeds and across Yorkshire, Gavin said he sees international tourists as well.
The presence of Whitby nearby has so far helped stem the flow of crowds.
Gavin said parking never used to be an issue, but the influx of out-of-towners has made it harder for locals to find space.
There is beginning to be a problem with places to stay.
Heather Garcia, 64, agreed - but thinks the town has retained its "soul".
She said the beaches were always empty when she was growing up.
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She told : "Now, when I go out for walks, the beach is full of tourists. It is a little sad that our bubble has burst, and people discovered our beautiful town - especially now as there are now lots of cars parked everywhere."
Laura Bowles, who owns a local upholstery business, wants more people to come to Saltburn.
As an out-of-towner herself, she said she felt very welcomed by locals when she moved in two years ago.
But she said businesses do suffer through off-peak seasons and more visitors would help combat this.
The town courted scandal not long ago when workmen dug up pavements, with "weird yellow circles" painted all around.
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