Canary Islands' Initiative to Improve Beach Accessibility for People with Mobility Challenges

Overview

The Canary Islands' Department of Social Welfare, Equality, Youth, Childhood, and Families has formalized a 50-year lease of specialized amphibious chairs to the municipality of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. This initiative aims to improve beach accessibility for people with mobility challenges, ensuring safe and inclusive access to public beaches.

Funding and Support

• Partly funded by the European Union through the Next Generation recovery funds.

Responsibilities and Management

• The municipality will be responsible for transporting, maintaining, and properly managing the chairs.
• The chairs will be strictly used for beach access purposes.

Goals and Broader Context

• The project aligns with broader efforts to promote social inclusion and equality by removing barriers that prevent some residents from enjoying the coast.

"This move is part of the Canary Islands’ strategy to enhance public spaces and ensure that all residents can enjoy natural resources safely."

Long-term Commitment

• The arrangement ensures the chairs will be available at designated beaches.
• Provisions for regular oversight by the government will guarantee safety and proper use.
• The 50-year concession emphasizes a long-term commitment to accessibility, signaling a clear dedication to inclusive public services.