Keeping Cork Active
Access to the beach and the sea is an important part of life in Cork. For many people, spending time by the coast offers opportunities to relax, socialise, enjoy nature and take part in physical activity. However, soft sand and uneven terrain can make beaches difficult to access for people with mobility difficulties, wheelchair users, older adults, or anyone recovering from injury.
Beach wheelchairs help remove this barrier. Designed with large, low-pressure wheels and supportive seating, these all-terrain chairs allow users to travel safely across sand and get closer to the shoreline. This enables people with mobility challenges to experience the beach environment alongside family and friends and to participate more fully in coastal activities.
For many individuals, access to natural outdoor spaces, such as beaches, can play a vital role in well-being. Time outdoors can support physical health, improve mood and provide valuable opportunities for recreation and connection to nature. Ensuring that beaches are accessible helps promote equality in sport, physical activity and leisure opportunities for everyone in the community.
Cork Sports Partnership works with Cork County Council, local partners and communities to improve access to outdoor recreation across the county. Providing beach wheelchairs is one practical way to help ensure that people with disabilities and mobility challenges can enjoy Cork’s beautiful coastline in a safe, inclusive and dignified way. Initiatives such as these support the wider goal of removing barriers to participation and enabling people of all abilities to be active and connected within their communities.
Cork Sports Partnership are delighted to announce a new all-terrain wheelchair to support people living with a disability enjoy the blue-flag Redbarn Beach in Youghal, East Cork has been put into service.
The wheelchair is the first one of its kind in East Cork and is the result of a partnership between Cork County Council, the Disability Federation of Ireland, Cork Sports Partnership, Irish Wheelchair Association Sport, and the Quality Hotel & Leisure Centre Redbarn.
The wheelchair will be available as follows:
