FOUR beaches in West Cork have received funding to improve access to the amenities for people of all abilities.

At a recent meeting of Bandon Kinsale Municipal District, municipal district officer Brian Dunne told councillors that Cork County Council has received €200,000 in funding as part of the 2023 ORIS Programme (Outdoor Recreation & Infrastructure Scheme).

The funding covers four beaches in the Western Division: Garretstown, Garrylucas, Inchydoney and Owenahincha with works having already started on the Bandon Kinsale beaches.

He said the works, which will include access ramps, handrails and platform at certain locations on the beaches will ensure that all adults and children, regardless of their level of physical ability, are able to access the free natural facilities by providing inclusive and sustainable opportunities to enjoy our natural resources. 

‘The timeline for delivery was delayed to ensure minimal disruption to beach users in the summer months,’ he said.

Meanwhile, he reported that there were no serious injuries or fatalities at both Garrylucas and Garrettstown beaches over the 2025 season.

Figures were also provided to councillors of a snapshot of swimmers on specific days during June, July and August at both Garrylucas and Garrettstown
beaches.

The figures, which were furnished to Mr Dunne from lifeguard staff, showed that between July 7th to 13th over 6,000 people visited Garrettstown Beach, while 5,881 visited there the following month between August 11th and 17th.

Meanwhile, 2,577 people visited nearby Garrylucas between July 7th and 13th, while 1,763 people visited there between August 11th and 17th.

However, figures for late August show a dramatic drop in visitors with just 169 people visiting Garrettstown between August 30th and 31st, while 152 visited Garrylucas over the same period.

Mr Dunne commended the excellent work undertaken by their lifeguard staff, which he said is a testament to their diligence in providing a safe environment for beach users.