An improved accessible toilet and changing room that will give more people the chance to enjoy Port Kembla Beach and pool is in the works.
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Wollongong City staff recommend that councillors accept a tender worth more than $646,000 (excluding GST) to construct the facility.
The planned toilet and change room will be suitable for people with high needs, as it will include such equipment as an overhead hoist and height-adjustable change table.
A report prepared by council staff, which councillors will consider at next Monday's meeting, says that without such a facility, people have to risk their own health and safety using inappropriate amenities or not go out in public.
"This is dangerous, unhygienic and undignified," the report says.
"It is now accepted and expected that everyone has a right to live in the community, to move around within it and access all its facilities, but for some people with disability, the lack of a fully accessible toilet is denying them this right."
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The project will also provide storage for beach access wheelchairs and refurbishment of existing toilet and change amenities at the site.
There are plans to build a ramp to improve access to Port Kembla Beach - one of four priority beaches the council identified in its beach access strategy - in the future.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
