Residents voice frustration over lack of progress
A delegation of 20 people with disabilities, dependency, or reduced mobility met with El Vendrell's governing team on Thursday 5th November 2026 to demand accessible beaches and assisted swimming services for the 2027 season. Led by Mayor Kenneth Martínez, the town council faced immediate tension at the start of the meeting as attendees expressed frustration that their long-standing requests had not yet been studied in detail. The group has been advocating for improvements over the past two years, with no concrete action taken so far. Their demands focus on ensuring autonomy and full access to the marine environment for dependent individuals.
Key demands include transport, infrastructure and support
Among the specific measures requested are a free taxi service to transport wheelchair users to coastal neighbourhoods, the installation of new concrete walkways, and the provision of accessible toilets and changing rooms. The group also called for trained technical staff to provide assisted swimming support during the summer months. These services are seen as essential for enabling people with mobility challenges to enjoy the coastline safely and independently.
We are not asking for luxury, we are asking for basic rights to access the sea like anyone else," said one participant.
Next meeting set for December, pending budget approval
The town council has committed to a follow-up meeting on Thursday 17th December 2026. This date is conditional on the approval of El Vendrell’s municipal budgets, which will determine the financial resources available for accessibility improvements. While no figures were confirmed during Thursday’s meeting, the council indicated that funding decisions will clarify what minimum improvements can be implemented for beach access and assisted swimming services ahead of the 2027 season. The 2025 municipal budget, approved in October 2024, allocated 66 million euros to public services and urban transformation, including inclusive initiatives, according to the council’s official website.
Sources: Diari de la Discapacitat, elvendrell.net.
