Whether it’s for a swim, a sail or a paddle, accessing the waters of Plymouth Sound is being made easier and safer thanks to physical improvements along the waterfront.
The work currently being carried out by Plymouth City Council includes installing or repairing steps, railings and slipways to give everyone a safer way into the water.
It’s all part of a programme of work to create the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, a UK first, and has been made possible thanks to a grant of £625,000 from the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership’s ‘Getting Building Fund’.
Council Leader Nick Kelly said: “We want more people to enjoy the beauty of Plymouth Sound and all the benefits that being by, in or on the water has for our mental and physical wellbeing. It’s vitally important that access to the Sound is as safe as it can be, and the physical access and environmental improvements that we’re making will help, making it much easier for people to explore the waterfront.
The work currently underway will improve access for beach visitors and water users at Firestone Bay, West Hoe Pier, Tinside Beach East, Pebblestone Pier, the Lion’s Den and Mount Batten.
A new storm gate on Mount Batten Breakwater will also help to make the waterfront safer. During storms, the gate can be closed to block access to the pier when extreme weather conditions pose a danger to the public.
These improvements build on the work that has already been carried out during 2021, which included the trial introduction of a swimming pontoon as well as the installation of five new lifesaving defibrillators, 14 sea swimming safety signs, and digital infrastructure that enabled Plymouth to host the hugely successful SailGP event in July.
The works to make access to the waterfront safer will be enhanced in the future with projects designed to bring the National Marine Park to life. A 'year of Sound Talking' was announced last week, as 2022 is set to be a year of excitement, free activities and conversations with the people of Plymouth to shape the park.