Koller Contributes its Expertise to Enhance West Bay Beach Wheelchair Scheme

Koller Engineering has partnered with the West Bay Beach Wheelchair Scheme to improve accessibility for wheelchair users at West Bay Beach, Dorset. The Yeovil-based company has donated its expertise, time, and products to ensure secure wheelchair attachment on the Trail Glider wheelchair buggy, enabling more people to enjoy the coastal experience.

The West Bay Beach Wheelchair Scheme aims to improve beach accessibility for those with disabilities. The scheme provides specially designed wheelchairs that allow users to experience the beach environment comfortably and safely.

Leoni Mullis, Director at Koller, said: "At Koller, we're committed to improving accessibility for all. When we learned about the West Bay Beach Wheelchair Scheme, we knew our expertise could make a real difference. It's been a privilege to contribute to this initiative and help make the beach more accessible to everyone."

Elaine Leader, founder of the scheme, said: "This is Kit using the Trail Glider wheelchair buggy funded by West Dorset Mencap for the West Bay Beach Wheelchair Scheme. It was the first time in 3 years that Kit had been on a beach and in the sea.

“I want to thank Andy and Max at Koller Engineering, they were amazing. Koller generously donated the products and came to West Bay to fit rails and securement to the Trail Glider. The securement solution is excellent, and it works perfectly.

“The Trail Glider is very special and unique because it provides freedom for people who need to remain in their own wheelchairs to access beaches and terrain that otherwise would not be possible."

The West Bay Beach Wheelchair Scheme aims to provide various wheelchairs for different levels of disability and personal requirements. The project, involving Bridport Town Council and Dorset Council, has already seen significant community support, including funding from West Dorset Mencap and management assistance from Parkdean Resorts caravan park.

Koller’s support for the West Bay Beach Wheelchair Scheme highlights the positive role businesses can play in community projects. Their contribution, along with that of Weymouth company Crafty Fabrication, which fabricated the Trail Glider, has helped improve accessibility to West Bay Beach. The scheme is now raising funds to build a permanent storage facility to replace the temporary container. To support this effort, please visit the Crowdfunder page https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/beach-wheelchairs-for-west-beach-west-bay-dorset-1