Bathing Water Ratings to Support Visitors

Beaches in South Tyneside have been rated for their bathing water quality in new annual figures released today (26 November 2024), supporting residents and visitors to make informed choices.

The bathing waters at both Sandhaven Beach and Marsden Bay have met the 'Good' standard based on water samples taken by the Environment Agency. The rating means that the beaches exceed the minimum standards for quality.

Littlehaven Beach has undergone testing for the first time this year having been newly classified as designated bathing waters. Unfortunately, as is common with newly designated sites, the beach has been rated 'Poor' for water quality. A 'poor' rating means the water has not met the minimum standards.

Councillor Ernest Gibson, Lead Member Neighbourhoods and Climate Change, said: "South Tyneside beaches are some of the most stunning in the country and attract visitors from near and far all year round. It is great that both Sandhaven and Marsden Bay are being recognised as 'good' beaches for water quality.

"Having these official ratings helps us to better protect the health of those entering the water at these locations as well as giving visitors up to date information and the confidence to make informed decisions about where they choose to bathe."

The bathing water quality classifications are awarded by the Environment Agency which closely monitors sources of pollution to ensure the water complies with regulations. Testing takes place during the bathing season (May to September), before being given a bathing water classification of 'Poor', 'Sufficient', 'Good' or 'Excellent'.

Latest information from the Agency shows that 92 per cent of bathing waters in England meet minimum water quality standards, with 85 per cent being rated as 'Good' or 'Excellent'.

The Council is already working with its partners at the Environment Agency and Northumbrian Water to investigate and determine why the bathing water quality at Littlehaven does not meet the minimum standards and to help develop an action plan to improve over the coming years.

Councillor Gibson said: "Littlehaven Beach itself remains a popular and safe spot for local residents and visitors to enjoy, and while the pier positions make the waters safe for sports and recreation, it can be more vulnerable to pollution.

"Given its unique location within the river Tyne estuary, the water quality rating is not unexpected. However, as a newly designated bathing water, this classification gives us a baseline on which to begin to drive up standards with the water now regularly monitored.

"Unfortunately, there is no quick fix and we expect it will take a few years until the water quality meets our aspirations. This is simply the start of our journey of improvement."

The ratings for the Borough's designated bathing waters support the work of the Council following its ocean recovery declaration, Motion for the Ocean. In endorsing the motion in January 2022, the Council made a commitment to take positive action to help enhance, restore and protect the ocean.