A $380,000 accessibility upgrade at Blacksmiths Beach means people of all abilities now have the chance to enjoy Lake Macquarie's coastline.
Construction included the installation of an all-access ramp, pathway and viewing platform at the high point of the foredunes, overlooking the water.
Community Planner Ageing and Disability Jennifer Linton-Webb said the works provided beach access to wheelchair and mobility aid users, people with prams and other people who had difficulty walking on soft sand.
“Improving access to beaches and waterways not only helps us achieve that goal – it means people with disability have the chance to enjoy simple pleasures that many people living close to the coast take for granted,” said Jennifer Linton-Webb.
A separate buggy access path to the beach has also been installed, providing access for the wheelchair buggies available to hire free of charge during the beach season.
“One of the key focus areas of our Disability Inclusion Action Plan is creating livable communities for everyone,” said Jennifer Linton-Webb.
The access-ways and viewing platform were made with fiberglass reinforced plastic mesh, designed to withstand the harsh beach environment.
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