Italian coastal towns clash over free beach access and inclusive amenities

In Sorrento, councilor Eduardo Fiorentino denounced the abandonment of the free San Francesco beach, urging the mayor to act quickly to restore public access and services.

Bacoli's mayor Josi Gerardo Della Ragione announced plans to raise the proportion of free and equipped beaches to over 80%, introducing public tenders for kiosks and facilities.

A Marsala resident reported that the Fortino free‑beach area has been narrowed after a private lido operator used a bulldozer, creating an artificial barrier that further reduces public space.

Genoa's Vernazzola neighbourhood opened an inclusive beach designed for people with disabilities, featuring barrier‑free access and specialised equipment.

Grottammare prepared a Blue Flag celebration emphasizing water quality, safety and accessibility, highlighting the inclusive "Peppe Greco" beach equipped for swimmers with reduced mobility.

An opinion piece from Positano suggested installing speed‑bump‑style traffic calmed zones near coastal roads to improve safety, proposing cameras and fines as alternatives to physical barriers.