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A viewing and seating area at Petit Bot bay now has wheelchair and mobility scooter access following a request from the access ambassador for the Guernsey Disability Alliance.
Dave Rowlinson, who has been the GDA’s access ambassador for 18 months, suggested the idea to the Forest Douzaine following a visit to the area.
“My wife was walking the dogs on the beach, and I thought I would go to one of the areas above on my scooter to watch,” he said.
“The area adjacent to the Martello Tower was blocked by parked cars and in the other larger area access was prevented by a low wall. It seemed to me that by simply removing a small part of the wall accessibility for all could be obtained”."
Mr Rowlinson contacted the Forest Douzaine who agreed that such a change could be made and would be beneficial.
Alterations have now been made to the existing low walled grass area just above the bay.
Mr Rowlinson said that the douzeniers were “very accommodating” when he proposed the change to them. He expressed happiness at the swiftness of action delivered.
Pictured: the modifications involved removing a small part of the wall between the seating area and car park.
Clive Le Tissier, a senior constable from Forest Douzaine, said that they are delighted this positive change has been realised.
“It is important that we consider the needs of people with mobility issues and, wherever viable, make the changes that allow as much as possible of our beautiful island to be accessible to all.
“The simple solution at Petit Bot could easily be replicated elsewhere. Well done Dave for pointing this out."
Karen Blanchford, Partnership Director at the GDA, said: “one of the aims of the GDA’s ‘Access for All’ campaign is to show that in many cases simple and viable changes can be made which will make a significant difference for people.
"Improving Accessibility in all areas of island life is key to providing better inclusion for all in the community."
When asked if he knew of other areas in the island which he would like to see improved, Mr Rowlinson said: “[officials] are currently looking at areas in other bays… already there is an improved area at Saints bay.
“It’s going to make it much easier,” he added.
Pictured (top): David Rowlinson (left).
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