A big challenge for many people is getting access to our beautiful beaches up and down the North Coast.
Ballina Shire Council (BSC) will be taking another step closer for all-abilities access to one of Ballina’s main beaches, Lighthouse Beach, with construction starting on 10 February to create an all abilities beach access. The work will include a new beach access ramp and improved emergency vehicle access at the Lighthouse Beach, East Ballina.
‘This project aims to ensure people of all abilities can enjoy our beautiful coastline,’ said Mr Cheyne Willebrands, Ballina Shire Council Manager – Open Spaces.
‘The improved beach access ramp has been a long-term goal for Council, and we are excited to deliver this important infrastructure for the community’
Tactile surfaces
The work will include the construction of a concrete ramp with stainless steel handrails and tactile surface indicators to provide universal access to the beach. An extension of the existing emergency vehicle concrete ramp and a concrete block retaining wall with stairs leading up to the beach showers.
Lighthouse Beach is approximately 500m in length and is patrolled in school holidays. There are plenty of walking tracks either end to give you great views of the beach, North Wall and Ballina Headland.
‘The northern end is perfect for when the northerly winds blow as it is protected from the headland. It is also the end that is patrolled in school holidays and on weekends in the summer months,’ says the BSC website.
Two-month construction
Construction of the access will take approximately two months, weather permitting. During construction, alternative beach access will be available via the front of the Lighthouse Beach Surf Life Saving Club slab. Lifeguard operations and the kiosk located under the Surf Club building will remain open throughout the works.
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