IMPROVED disability access across the Frankston region was celebrated last week when Frankston Council’s Disability and Access Inclusion Committee (DAIC) marked its 30th anniversary.
The mayor Cr Colin Hampton thanked the committee, made up of residents with experience of disability and sector professionals, for significant improvements in disability access since its formation in July 1988.
The DAIC has contributed to several projects including:
- The design and functionality of the construction at the Peninsula Aquatic and Leisure Centre (PARC)
- The beach accessible wheelchair, at the Frankston Visitor Information Centre
- The Wheelie Ramble
- Additional accessible parking bays in the City centre
- The Wells and Beach Street taxi drop-off zones
- Construction of the accessible boardwalk on the waterfront and a beach access ramp at the Frankston Yacht Club building
- The Young Street Improvement Project
- Changing Places toilet advocacy
“More recently we’ve seen a number of changes introduced to create a more accessible and inclusive waterfront, including improving access to the playground and barbecue,” Cr Hampton said.
Committee veteran Henryk Kay, a member for 30 years, commended the use of the “Universal Design” approach to developing projects within Frankston City. He said projects like PARC are an example of building “for all”.
“We should all embrace change when the end goal is a net benefit for our city. Sometimes extra work behind the scenes has to occur to achieve that goal,” Mr Kay said.