Autonomous Access Tested at Nova Icària
The Barcelona city council has completed a pilot of the Seatrac system, a motorised beach chair mounted on rails that enables people with reduced mobility to enter the sea independently. The trial, part of the city’s participatory budgeting programme, took place at Nova Icària beach after initial testing at Barceloneta was halted due to the steep slope interfering with the device’s operation.
Positive Results from Ten-Day Trial
The system was operational for ten days at the bathing support point on Nova Icària beach, where it recorded around 100 uses. According to the council, this data will help assess the technical viability of the device, its benefits to users, and the suitability of the beach layout for permanent installation. The Seatrac system offers an alternative for individuals with higher autonomy who wish to access the water without direct physical assistance.
The incorporation of Seatrac offers a new option for people who want to enjoy the sea independently.
Next Steps for City Accessibility
With the bathing season now over, municipal services will evaluate the results to determine whether the system could be permanently implemented next summer. The trial forms part of broader efforts to improve beach access: in July alone, Barcelona’s bathing assistance points welcomed 4,229 visitors with reduced mobility, with Nova Icària being the most used location. The assisted bathing service, including equipment and trained staff, remains available at Barceloneta, Nova Icària, Bogatell and the Fórum bathing area. Further details on accessibility services are available via the Barcelona City Council's official page.
Primary sources: ajuntament.barcelona.cat, barcelona.cat, Barcelona City Council. Reported by diarideladiscapacitat.cat, barcelonapress.com, tododisca.es, Diari de la Discapacitat.
