Ballina beaches set for major access upgrades

CONSTRUCTION is underway on major beach access upgrades in Ballina Shire, with improvements planned for Lighthouse Beach and Sharpes Beach.

Lighthouse Beach will soon have a new beach access ramp and improved emergency vehicle access, while a development proposal for Sharpes Beach includes upgrades to the car park and new public amenities.

The plans include a surf lifesaving storeroom, viewing deck, beach showers, picnic facilities, stormwater management infrastructure, and pedestrian paths.

Submissions on the project close on March 5 and can be made via the council’s consultation website.

Meanwhile, approved work at Lighthouse Beach has begun, featuring a concrete ramp with stainless steel handrails and tactile surface indicators to provide universal access to the beach.

There will also be an extension of the existing emergency vehicle concrete ramp and a concrete block retaining wall with stairs leading up to the beach showers.

Council manager of open spaces Cheyne Willebrands said the project aims to ensure people of all abilities can access the beach.

“The improved beach access ramp has been a long-term goal for Council, and we are excited to deliver this important infrastructure for the community,” he said.

During construction, alternative beach access will be available via the front of the Lighthouse Beach Surf Life Saving Club slab.

Lifeguard operations and the kiosk located under the surf club building will remain open throughout the works.

The project is funded by the federal and state governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The work is expected to be finished by mid-April.