Barrier-free beach project improves accessibility along Poland’s Baltic coast

New mobility equipment funded by the Energa Foundation is helping make beaches in Gdańsk and Gdynia more accessible for people with disabilities. The initiative marks another step towards inclusive coastal infrastructure and equal access to the Baltic Sea.

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19 june 2026   |   07:46   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

fot. Fundacja Energa

fot. Fundacja Energa

Specialised equipment for coastal users

Under the Plaża Bez Barier project, 10 all-terrain beach wheelchairs and six mobility walkers designed for use on sand have been delivered to Gdańsk and Gdynia.

In Gdańsk, the equipment was provided through the Ewesa Foundation to the Gdańsk Sports Centre, which received six wheelchairs and four walkers. The equipment will be available free of charge at the lifeguard station in Brzeźno. In Gdynia, the Inthinknity Foundation facilitated the delivery of four beach wheelchairs, including models for adults and children, as well as two mobility walkers.

The total value of the Energa Foundation’s support for both locations amounted to PLN 377,772.

Accessibility as part of coastal development

The project addresses one of the key challenges faced by people with reduced mobility: accessing beaches and reaching the shoreline safely and independently.

While the initiative focuses on practical mobility solutions, its significance extends beyond equipment procurement. It highlights the growing role of accessibility in the development of public spaces, tourism infrastructure and coastal destinations. With more than 10% of Poland’s population living with disabilities, improving access to recreational areas remains an important social and urban development priority.

Practical demonstrations on the beach

The project was presented during events held in Gdańsk and Gdynia, bringing together representatives of local authorities, social organisations and project partners.

A key element of both events was a live demonstration of the equipment in beach conditions. Participants were able to observe how the wheelchairs and walkers perform on sandy terrain and how they enable users to reach the waterline with greater ease and independence.

The demonstrations showed that well-designed mobility solutions can significantly reduce barriers to accessing coastal environments.

Partnership supporting inclusive waterfronts

The Energa Foundation acted as the project’s main financial partner, supporting both the purchase of specialised equipment and activities aimed at raising awareness of accessibility issues.

Plaża Bez Barier demonstrates how cooperation between local governments, non-governmental organisations and the private sector can deliver tangible benefits for coastal communities. The initiative also reflects a broader trend in which accessibility is becoming an increasingly important component of sustainable waterfront management and inclusive tourism development.

As coastal cities continue to invest in public spaces and visitor infrastructure, projects such as Plaża Bez Barier offer a practical model for ensuring that access to the sea is available to everyone.

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Kamil Kusier
redaktor naczelny

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