Beach Wheelchairs Now Available at Five Cork County Beaches

Cork County Council and Cork Sports Partnership have expanded their beach wheelchair programme to five locations across the county, with three new beaches added for 2026.

The service is now available at The Warren in Rosscarbery, Redbarn Beach and Claycastle Beach in Youghal, Garrylucas Beach in Ballinspittle, and Garryvoe Beach in Garryvoe. The expansion gives people with mobility difficulties the opportunity to access the shoreline and enjoy Cork's coastline alongside family and friends.

The all-terrain chairs feature large, low-pressure wheels and a supportive seat, allowing users to move safely across sand and reach the shoreline with ease. Alongside the wheelchairs, beach rollators have also been introduced at Claycastle Beach in Youghal and Garryvoe Beach; these can be converted into a seat, giving users the option to rest and take in their surroundings.

The programme has been funded through the Outdoor Swimming Infrastructure Fund and the Dormant Accounts Fund, under the Sports Inclusion Disability Capital Programme, and is delivered in partnership with local community organisations.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Lenihan Foley welcomed the initiative:

"The provision of these beach wheelchairs is an important step towards ensuring that Cork's beaches are accessible and welcoming for everyone. Our beaches are among the county's greatest natural amenities, and it is important that all members of our communities have the opportunity to enjoy and experience these wonderful locations. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to inclusion and equal access for all."

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell said:

"Cork County Council is committed to enhancing accessibility across our public amenities and ensuring that people of all abilities can participate fully in community life. The introduction of these beach wheelchairs removes barriers and creates new opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy our beaches together. We are proud to work with Cork Sports Partnership and local community partners on initiatives that support inclusion, wellbeing and quality of life."

Strategic Operations Manager of Cork Sports Partnership, Maurice O'Sullivan said:

"At Cork Sports Partnership, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to be active and enjoy the benefits of recreation regardless of age, ability or mobility. These beach wheelchairs will open up new opportunities for participation, exploration and enjoyment for many individuals who may previously have found beach access challenging or impossible. We are delighted to collaborate with Cork County Council and our local community partners in delivering practical initiatives that make a real difference in people's lives."

Information on beach wheelchair locations, service providers, booking procedures and availability is available at the Cork Sports Partnership website.