The recent opening of a new playground and Manx Marine Scene observation point at Bradda Glen demonstrate the continuing commitment of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture to improve facilities for all visitors to Bradda Head.
A small playground, installed by play equipment specialists ‘Playdale’, is situated next to the cafe building. Aimed primarily at children under the age of eight, it provides a safe environment to let off steam and have fun.
A little way further up the Glen, a ‘Manx Marine Scene’ observation point offers stunning views across Port Erin Bay and beyond towards the Calf. The Manx Wildlife Trust has installed free-to-use binoculars and three interpretation boards which show the wide variety of local marine wildlife to be seen in coastal waters around the Island. This, of course, includes basking sharks which can sometimes be seen through the summer months from this vantage point at Bradda.
The observation point is designed to allow easy access for disabled visitors; the approach being via a tarmac ‘path for all’ which has handrails and a resting place half-way along it. Picnic benches with wheelchair access are situated on a grassed area nearby where visitors can sit and enjoy the views. The binoculars are also set at a convenient height for wheelchair users.
Works to enhance the viewpoint at Bradda were carried out in collaboration between the Department, Manx Wildlife Trust and Crossroads Care (formerly the Manx Foundation for the Physically Disabled). The Manx Foundation not only provided advice on the design specifications for the improvements but also gave generous financial assistance towards the overall cost of the scheme.
DEFA Minister Phil Gawne said, “The Department’s objective at Bradda is to enhance and encourage enjoyment of one of the Island’s most beautiful natural assets for visitors and local residents alike.”
“I would like to thank Crossroads Care for the advice given to improve access to the Glen for people with disabilities and also for its generous financial contribution to the works carried out. These improvements will ensure that disabled people, in particular, will benefit from the facilities at Bradda in the years ahead.”
“I am also delighted that Bradda was chosen as part of the network of Manx Wildlife Trust’s Marine Scene Observation Points; which very much compliments the Department’s own marine education objectives.’’
Andrea Rycroft from the Crossroads Care Access Office added “The facilities and access at Bradda Glen are an example of the progress we are making towards a more inclusive Island.”
These access improvements follow hot-on-the-heels of the refurbishment of Milner’s Tower; one of the most iconic landmarks in the south of the Island. This 140 year old structure, sympathetically renovated last year, can be accessed via many of the pathways situated on Bradda Head. A walk to the turret at the top of the spiral staircase offers a bird’s eye view all around.
Photo - taken at Bradda Glen shows Service users: Tara Bowden, Heidi Ringham, Zoe Mason (support worker) Paul Clague and Mark Cowley (support worker).
