The possibility of a seaside for everyone moved closer thanks to the recent Ryde Beach Accessibility Partnership event. Businesses from across the Isle of Wight came together to hear the latest developments on the project that will see a beach boardwalk installed to allow those using wheelchairs and other accessible equipment to access the seaside. Guests were hosted in the Solent Views meeting facility at Hovertravel’s Ryde terminal with light refreshments provided by Grace’s Bakery and Mermaid Gin. After hearing about the impact this new level of accessibility will bring from the project’s ambassadors, there was a trip on the hovercraft around to the beach to see the boardwalk in action. Ryde Town Council Projects Officer Annette Johansson-Steed explained:
“We have already tested the first section of the planned boardwalk successfully and we wanted to share and show our partners how this first milestone has exceeded expectations. “A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who contributed to this achievement – from the skilled construction crew at NaShers to the incredible support of our community members who have been with us every step of the journey. “At the same time of publication, the Crowdfunding page has reached an incredible £6,002 from 29 supporters so far, however, we are still some way off reaching our target and I am delighted to say this event also encouraged more donations.”
The seasonal walkway has been put together by NaShers – Nettlestone and Seaview Shed – and is to be stored away in the off-season to ensure its longevity. The decision to make the boardwalk out of wood was one of both durability and cost effectiveness. Speaking to Island Echo, Rob from NaShers, has said:
“The assembly of the boardwalk was relatively simple once you get going. We started back in March and we still have a fair old way to until we reach the 200m target.”
“We know access to the beach and the seaside is something many of us take for granted but the reality is that many of our beaches are difficult or impossible for some people to reach and our belief is that the seaside should be for everyone. By auctioning a private hovercraft charter we can raise a substantial amount for this very worthy project.”
For more details, visit the project’s Crowdfunding page at https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ryde-beach-accessibility
Nashers meet everyday between 10:00 -12:30 at Seagrove Recreation Ground in Seaview.
Great to see some truly Great people on this Island!
This is fantastic news! Well done to all concerned. It will be much appreciated.
An excellent idea and a credit to all concerned. But please keep a percentage of the budget back for annual maintenance. Private back garden patios where people regularly clean & seal to preserve structural integrity and their investment is one thing. But decking used as a public walkway in a sea salt beach environment can quickly lead to warping, cracking and splitting. At the least slippery to walk on. But in general a great idea all round. Dragging wheelchairs and baby buggies through deep sand is an arduous task. Let’s hope the budget stretched to Stainless screws and fittings…:)
“The assembly of the boardwalk was relatively simple once you get going. We started back in March and we still have a fair old way to until we reach the 200m target.”
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seriously, 200 metres – I sincerely hope that you are not planning on covering over great swathes of our sandy beaches, to the detriment of all the able bodied beach users that want the sand between their toes, who actually work and have deductions from their salaries, in the form of taxation, which is then handed to all these people on benefits.
Thrilled to hear this for all of those who need support to enjoy the beach. Thank you to all who make this possible.
Yet many disabled persons cannot safely travel on Island pavements due to
Vehicles being parked on the pavement.
A total parking ban on Pavements is what the Island needs, it works well in
London.
My vote will go to whichever candidate enforces the BAN of Pavement Parking.
my vote will go to anyone that commits to reducing taxes, cutting state spongers benefits and booting out all illegals back to france, whether they want it or not.