By Press Release
Ryde Town Council has announced the official opening of their beach accessibility facilities! This milestone event marks a significant step forward in ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility challenges, can enjoy the beautiful five-mile stretch of Ryde beach.
This project was born from heartfelt feedback from wheelchair users who were excluded from enjoying one of Ryde’s greatest treasures. With inspiration from beach towns across the country, and considering Ryde’s unique shifting sands, they decided on a sturdy wooden boardwalk as the best solution.
Partnering with NaShers, a dedicated men’s sheds group from Seaview, a bespoke 200-meter boardwalk was created. Thanks to their hard work, wheelchair users, people with mobility challenges, and families with pushchairs can now easily access the beach.
In addition to the boardwalk, a range of equipment to make beach strolls and dips in the sea accessible to everyone has been introduced. The collection includes beach and sea wheelchairs, a sand rollator, and equipment provided by the Lifeguards, all available free of charge through an online booking system:
https://www.ryde-marina.co.uk/beach-hire-services/beach-accessibility-bookings/
A major upgrade accompanying these provisions is the seasonal Changing Places unit located near the existing toilet facilities at Eastern Gardens. Fully equipped with a ceiling hoist, changing bench, shower, and accessible amenities, this facility ensures that everyone can enjoy their time at the beach comfortably.
For more details and bookings please visit https://www.ryde-marina.co.uk/beach-hire-services/beach-accessibility-bookings/ or contact Ryde Town Council on 811105 or email beach.accessibility@rydetowncouncil.gov.uk
