Accesibility audit beaches

An accessibility audit of all beaches in the Greystones Municipal District will be carried out as a matter of urgency following a motion tabled by Green Party Councillor Lourda Scott.  It was also agreed that a plan be drawn up to address deficiencies identified by the audit as soon as possible.  

Speaking after the District meeting where the motion received unanimous support, Scott said: “I have been contacted by many people in the area about this problem. We live beside an incredible natural amenity which is sadly out of bounds to many people with mobility and other issues.    I have visited beaches across the District with constituents to see first hand the difficulties there are with access. While there has been some improvements there is a lot more that needs to be done. I have been working on this for some time and it is clear to me that a comprehensive audit is required in order to get an overall picture of the deficiencies; not only in getting onto the beach but also looking at parking, pathways and boardwalks leading to and around the beach and its environs. As a lover of the sea myself, I know exactly how important a role it plays in mental and physical health. It is vitally important that everybody has access to this beautiful resource, no matter their ability or disability. The audit is a necessary step in finding solutions to these problems. It will be important that the community most affected will be included in this and it was agreed that Disability Federation of Ireland will be involved throughout the audit process. After the audit I hope that all stakeholders will work together in creating innovative solutions so that true universal access can be achieved. I would ask anyone that has experienced difficulties in getting onto our beaches or surrounds to please contact me.”