Galway City beaches have secured €25,000 in Government funding to improve accessibility through new beach wheelchairs and storage facilities at Salthill and Silverstrand, supporting the ongoing management of public recreational amenities.

Galway Live reports that the funding forms part of a €400,000 Government initiative to improve accessibility at outdoor swimming locations nationwide, with Sport Ireland distributing the funding on behalf of the Department of Health.

The investment complements Galway City Council's ongoing pilot project to introduce beach mobility mats at Ballyloughane and Silverstrand in partnership with the Irish Wheelchair Association and the Galway Beach Access Group. The initiative aims to improve access for wheelchair users and people with mobility difficulties while enhancing the accessibility of public beaches.

Before the mobility mats can be introduced, Galway City Council must complete several operational requirements, including health and safety measures, insurance arrangements, storage facilities and Appropriate Assessment screening. Council officials are also reviewing access infrastructure at both locations to determine whether improvements to existing ramps are required.

A dedicated working group will oversee the day-to-day management of the mobility mats, including installation, removal after use and ensuring they remain clear and accessible for beach users. The Irish Wheelchair Association has also agreed to provide lightweight mobility mats designed to simplify installation and ongoing management.

The project highlights the growing role of facilities management in delivering accessible public spaces, with operational planning, infrastructure maintenance and inclusive design becoming increasingly important across local authority-managed facilities. Investments in accessibility continue to support safer, more inclusive environments while strengthening the long-term management of public amenities.