29-05-2025
Beach wheelchairs improve access at Bettystown Beach in Meath
This aims to assist people with a physical disability and those with reduced mobility in accessing the beach and water.
The two chairs – the Terra Wheels beach wheelchair is a durable wheelchair and is easily propelled by an attendant using the push handle, while the Hippocampe is a beach friendly wheelchair allowing users to go into the water and swim while the chair floats.
Speaking at the launch, CEO of Meath LSP, Mary Murphy spoke about the impact that the beach wheelchairs saying that 'the provision of the two beach wheelchairs at Bettystown beach presents an opportunity for those with physical disabilities and reduced mobility to enjoy the beach, the water and the coastline; whether that is with family members, as part of a school outing or as part of a group.'
Councillor Geraldine Keogan of the Laytown/Bettystown district said: 'It's a great initiative to see, I believe that everyone should have access to the beach. It's very important for everyone to be included in everything. I hope to see more people coming to the beach and make avail of the wheelchairs.'
However, some concerns have been raised about the limited availability by Councillor Carol Lennon.
Cllr Lennon said: 'Whilst it's a great initiative, wheelchair users are restricted as to when they can access the beach. It's a step in the right direction, but not quite far enough. We need to increase the time frame.'
The beach wheelchairs are available daily between 11am and 7pm, with bookings offered in two-hour time slots. They can be collected from the Beach Wardens hut located beside the Civic Centre.
To ensure availability, Meath LSP has created an online registration page, allowing users to pre-book their preferred times.
