You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The plans below show a harbour in 2000 and how it looks today.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words
Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Model Answer 1
The diagrams present a comparison of the layouts of Porth Harbour in 2000 and its current configuration. Over this period, the harbour has undergone substantial transformation, most notably with the addition of a third dock to accommodate increased maritime traffic and the conversion of a historic castle into a luxury hotel, significantly altering both its functionality and aesthetic.
In 2000, the northern area of the harbour was dominated by two docks, facilitating maritime activities. To the southeast, a historic castle stood next to a public beach, adding to the area's charm. The western part featured two car parks: one accessible via a secondary road and the other positioned off the main road, where amenities such as showers and toilets were conveniently located. Additionally, designated areas for fishing boats and a marina were marked in the ocean vicinity.
Fast forward to today, the harbour has seen the introduction of a third dock, designed to accommodate an increased number of passenger ferries. The former castle site has been elegantly transformed into a luxury hotel, with the adjacent beach now privatized for hotel guests. To enhance visitor experience, a new commercial zone with cafes and shops has been established near the lifeboat station, directly opposite the newly expanded docks. Furthermore, the previously distinct zones for fishing boats and the marina have switched locations, optimizing space utilization and improving service access.
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Model Answer 2
The pictures compare the layouts of Porth Harbour from 2000 to the present day. Overall, the harbour has witnessed considerable changes; including additional docks and recreational areas, a number of new facilities have been built, and the functions of some areas have changed.
In 2000, to the north part of the picture, two docks were constructed; in contrast, in terms of the south-east part, a disused castle was located next to a public beach. As for the western part, there were two car parks, one accessed via a secondary road and the other via the main road, where a place for showers and toilets was built in the north. In addition, there were two spaces for fishing boats and marina, respectively, in the ocean.
Regarding today’s harbour, more passenger ferries are allowed because of an additional constructed dock. A hotel has replaced the castle, and the previously public beach is now private, for hotel guests only. Besides, a new space for cafes and shops has been constructed next to a lifeboat, which is located across from the docks. Moreover, the places which previously accommodated fishing boats and marina now changes to store marina and fishing boats, respectively.
Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score