Plans Submitted For New Lifeguard Unit At Castlerock Beach

Plans have been submitted for a lifeguard unit and permanent platform at Castlerock Beach.

The RNLI proposal would see a “BLU” lifeguard unit installed on land approximately 105 metres north-east of No. 13 The Promenade.

A supporting planning statement says the proposed location would give lifeguards a more central position and better views of the beach and sea, particularly the designated swimming area between the flags.

The RNLI currently places a seasonal lifeguard unit on a rocky outcrop to the west of the promenade. According to the statement, minor injuries to members of the public and lifeguards have occurred at that location.

Under the proposals, the new platform would remain in place permanently, while the lifeguard unit and steps would be installed seasonally when the RNLI operates at the beach.

The platform would measure 5.5 metres by 3.7 metres and stand 1.7 metres high. The unit would provide space for a lookout and equipment storage, with electricity supplied by small rooftop solar panels.

The proposed site is outside the sand dunes and close to pedestrian routes linking the promenade with the beach.

The statement, prepared by GM Design Associates, says the dunes would help screen the facility from neighbouring properties and the promenade.

The site lies just outside Castlerock’s settlement development limit and partly within a designated Local Landscape Policy Area. The supporting statement argues that the proposal’s public safety role justifies small-scale infrastructure at the coastal location.