Nairn Access Panel have been making some great strides in improving accessibility for their members and for the greater community. They have recently experienced signs of success in three of their main projects. Increasing access to its glorious sandy beaches, improving countryside paths, and step-free access at Nairn Railway Station.
Nairn Beach Access
Nairn Access Panel managed to raise a whopping £100,000 with the aim of making a very popular area of Nairn links more inclusive and welcoming to disabled people. The project includes an access platform over the soft sand at Nairn beach to enable people who are unable to manoeuvre over the soft sand to sit near family and friends, and to enjoy the views from the platform. They are also planning to construct a ramp from the platform onto a landing area next to the platform and provide roll-on / roll-off matting to help people reach the harder sand when the tide is out. Nairn Access Panel will also be levelling off the embankment above the beach and will provide two fully accessible picnic benches.
Improving path access
Currently access to the harbour pier is only accessible by road and has no safe access for pedestrians. However, there is a route to the pier that has been created by walkers to enjoy the spectacular views of the Moray Firth. Unfortunately this route is currently inaccessible to those with mobility issues. Nairn Access Panel have managed to raise an enormous amount from funding bodies, providing a grand total of £170’000. This sum will allow Nairn Access Panel with the Highland Council to construct a 2.5m wide footway, following the desired route, to give unfettered access from the Links down the pier.
Nairn Railway Station
Nairn Railway Station is a source of immense frustration for the Nairn community. After years of campaigning Network Rail have presented plans to the Highland Council planning authority to provide a new bridge and lift to enable anyone to use the walkway without having to struggle with the antiquated steps. Nairn Access Panel have put much thought into the design of new bridge ensuring it fits with the heritage status of Nairn station whilst providing step free access making the station accessible for all.
If you would like to get involved in Access Panel work in Nairn you can contact the panel using the email below.
Nairn Access Panel: accessnairn@gmail.com
