Puglia launches plan for 56 newly equipped public beaches

The Puglia region announced that 56 of its 69 coastal municipalities have submitted proposals for the “Spiagge Libere” (Free Beaches) programme, part of the “Mare Democratico” strategy. The initiative seeks to make the coastline more accessible, safe and inclusive by installing facilities such as ramps, lifeguard towers, beach‑volleyball courts, accessible restrooms, changing rooms and equipment storage.

Regional President Antonio Decaro stressed that the sea is a natural right for all Pugliese residents and that the new beaches will remain free and publicly managed. The scheme is planned as a three‑year rollout, with an additional call for proposals expected in early 2027 to allow remaining municipalities to participate and complete the upgrades.

Projects already moving through the assessment phase include passarelle installations in Monopoli, Alessano and Alliste; a combination of ramps, changing rooms and assistance services in Squinzano; and accessible pathways, a beach‑volleyball field and disability‑friendly toilets in Brindisi.