Beach Access Project

The Beach Access Project

Our Vision

“enhance and improve beach access to enable people with medical/mental health conditions and disabilities to play a meaningful and active role in beach life and blue space.”

This documentary was produced by students from Bourenouth University Media Production Department.  They did an amazing job and I want to thank them for the passion and professionalism.  

The Challenge

The UK has over 1,500 beaches stretching along 31,000 km of coastline, yet only a handful are accessible. Unlike buildings and green spaces, there are no standards or a  national framework meaning the majority of beaches are not open to all.

Many are difficult to access due to:

  • Lack of access to beach wheelchairs,  pathways, matting or boardwalks onto and over the beach. 
  • limited availability to beach platforms
  • Barriers to participation in beach activities (relaxing by the sea, paddleboarding, kayaking, surfing with adaptive equipment and support)
  • Inadequate accessible facilities (e.g., changing spaces, toilets, parking)
  • Limited information about which beaches are suitable for people with mobility challenges