Bathing Water Quality results for Arun | Latest news

Webchat

Bathing Water Quality results for Arun

DEFRA have published their bathing water quality reports and results for 2022.

There have been two classification changes in our district. On the whole, bathing water quality remains good or excellent. Middleton on Sea and Pagham have excellent bathing water quality, while Littlehampton, Felpham and Bognor Regis East have a good classification. It should be noted that Bognor Regis East, was previously excellent.

One of the many UK areas falling into the poor category for 2022 is Bognor Regis Aldwick.

We have been in discussion with The Environment Agency and Southern Water and a working group has been formed to determine the causes of the reduced bathing water quality and to agree appropriate interventions. This is a complex matter that warrants systematic investigation.

Cllr Shaun Gunner, Leader of the Council said:

“As you know, the importance of clean bathing water in our area is high on my radar. I am of course delighted to see that the majority of our bathing water areas are either in the good or excellent classification, but I cannot hide my significant disappointment that Bognor Regis Aldwick has fallen into the poor category.

“I take this very seriously and earlier this year, met with Southern Water about the problem, and I will continue to meet with them until improvements are seen.

“Bognor Regis Aldwick is the only place in Sussex that now have a poor category and the Environment Agency have advised against bathing. This is not good enough, and I share the concerns of residents and businesses who are worried about the impact on our environment and economy. I will leave no stone unturned in making sure that something is done.

“Officers from the council being part of the working group that will focus on this issue is vital - collaborating with other key agencies to find solutions to the problem in the hope that we have better news in 2023.”

More information can be found here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/bathing-waters-in-england-compliance-reports