Harry McQuillen’s Age of insecurity
There is nothing like a period of ill health to make any of us feel below par.
The last couple of months or so have not been a very good time for me. I always thought that my return to the house I have lived in for most of my life, would herald a period of contentment, if not euphoria. That just has not happened so far. I will admit that I’ve had a few health issues, manifested in the form of skin lesions, a touch of the wobbles and feeling ill at ease.
The weather has been great here in Amble, so that is not the issue. I have been equally lucky in having wonderful care and attention from members of my extended family.
I am on my own now and it feels a bit odd. The next few weeks should see me settled in my renovated house, finding out where everything is and trying to remember where I have put something.
Amble seems to be thriving as a holiday resort. That is a plus. The other side of the coin is the hollowness that comes from the very large number of temporary residents who occupy holiday lets and who travel here by car from all over the place. Our young folk are priced out of their hometown, as are many older members of their families. There is nothing we can do about any of it in the market-driven economy. One hears of attempts to ‘cure the problem’ by restrictions and suggested restrictions, on the use of our housing stock. Planning and nimbyism has been one of my constant themes. Answers on a postcard please!
The other side of the coin is the energy that comes from all the folk who come here. I often talk to people I meet (surprise, surprise) giving them my view of how we are doing. The same topics come up. Where can I find a parking spot? What happens if I move my car?
I wonder if anybody will be talking or writing about this in 20 years’ time.
Harry
We visit Amble as tourists and sincerely hope it helps the town’s economy. Keep well Harry