New beach wheelchair scheme set to open up Littlehampton seafront for all
Residents and visitors with limited mobility will soon be able to enjoy easier access to Littlehampton beach, thanks to a new beach wheelchair loan scheme being introduced by Arun District Council this summer.
The scheme, which will be delivered in partnership with the council's leisure provider, Freedom Leisure, will operate from The West Green area of Littlehampton seafront, alongside the popular water play area. Operating hours will align with the water play facility.
The specially designed beach wheelchairs have been built for coastal environments and feature low-pressure balloon wheels that can travel across sand and other beach surfaces, helping users get closer to the shoreline and enjoy the beach experience.
Initially, one adult beach wheelchair will be available, with a children's beach wheelchair expected to be added later this summer. The wheelchairs can be booked free of charge online through Beach Wheelchair Tickets online - Freedom Leisure Littlehampton Wave
Users will be responsible for assessing and managing their own risks when using the equipment, and bookings will be subject to the terms and conditions of the scheme.
Ahead of the official launch, Councillor Amanda Worne, Chair of Arun District Council's Environment Committee, had the opportunity to try one of the new beach wheelchairs.
"I have just come back from what I have to say was one of the best days of my life. I spent the morning on the beach with the wind in my hair and the salt air on my face. I went into the sea, splashed in the water, threw stones and, when the tide is in, I'll even be able to go for a swim.
"This is something I have been unable to do since my accident in 2015.
"For the first time in years, I can enjoy a day at the beach with my family. It was such a lovely feeling and now so many others who have been deprived of that experience will be able to enjoy it too.
"This is a huge achievement and something we should be incredibly proud of. We want as many people as possible to know that this opportunity is available to them."
The new initiative forms part of Arun District Council's commitment to making its coastline more accessible and inclusive, enabling more residents and visitors to enjoy everything the district's beaches have to offer.
The council will also explore opportunities to extend the provision to Bognor Regis, helping even more people access and enjoy Arun's coastline.
Further details about the beach wheelchair loan scheme, including booking arrangements and launch dates, will be available through Freedom Leisure Littlehampton Wave.