As the weather warms up, new research has identified 20 UK beaches where swimming is not advised due to poor water quality from sewage and waste pollution. The list, compiled by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, includes beaches classified as 'poor', the lowest rating.
Topping the list is Littlehaven Beach in South Shields, Tyne and Wear. According to House of Commons statistics, 15,977 hours of sewage dumping occurred in the area in 2023, a 162% increase on 2022, as reported by Gateshead Liberal Democrats. Residents have protested, with the Paddle-Out Campaign organised by Surfers Against Sewage last year.
Other notable beaches on the list include Lyme Regis, Ilfracombe, Weston-super-Mare, and Blackpool. Blackpool South MP Chris Webb wrote to the Environment Minister expressing concern, stating: 'My constituents should be able to reap all the benefits of our town’s greatest natural asset.'
Somerset is the worst-impacted county with five beaches: Dunster Beach, Blue Anchor West, Burnham Jetty North, Weston-super-Mare Uphill Slipway, and Weston Main. Devon follows with three beaches: Coastguards Beach, Instow, and Ilfracombe Wildersmouth.
Martin Danemaq, spokesperson for Locals Insider, which commissioned the research, said: 'As temperatures rise, it’s important to be aware that a small number of beaches should be avoided for swimming. However, only 20 out of 400 official bathing spots are unsuitable, leaving hundreds of options.' He advised checking water quality before planning a trip.
