Two Arun beaches recognised for great facilities in annual Seaside Awards
Arun District Council is pleased to announce that Littlehampton's Coastguards Beach and Bognor Regis' East Beach have retained their Seaside Awards for 2026.
Presented by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, the awards recognise high standards of beach cleanliness, safety and environmental management at the two Arun beaches.
Unlike the Blue Flag Award, the Seaside Award is not based on bathing water quality, which is the responsibility of Southern Water. Instead, it is a trusted mark of quality that reassures visitors they are heading to a well-managed beach with good facilities.
Councillor Amanda Worne, Chair of the Environment Committee at Arun District Council, said:
“We're really pleased to see both beaches recognised once again with Seaside Awards. For many people, these stretches of coastline are special places and this award reflects the care that goes into looking after them.
“It's a genuine team effort, and a real credit to our dedicated council staff and the many local volunteers who give their time to help keep our beaches clean, safe and welcoming for everyone who uses them.
“We know how important our coastline is to residents and visitors alike, and we remain committed to protecting it. We will continue to work closely with Southern Water and other partners to tackle wider challenges around bathing water quality and pollution, so our beaches can continue to be enjoyed. Keep Britain Tidy's Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, said:
“England is fortunate to boast some of the world's finest beaches, and it's encouraging to see this reflected in the awards for Littlehampton's Coastguards Beach and Bognor Regis' East Beach, signalling the high standards for those who visit or live nearby ."
Seaside Awards are presented to some of the best beaches in England and celebrate the quality and diversity of the country's coastline.
Beaches are assessed against a range of criteria, including:
- safety and services, such as first aid provision and lifeguards where required
- environmental information, including details about local ecosystems
- environmental management, including litter and waste facilities
- water quality - Blue Flag beaches must meet the 'excellent' standard set out in the EU Bathing Water Directive, while Seaside Award beaches must meet at least the 'sufficient' standard
For more information about the Seaside Awards, visit
https://www.keepbritaintidy.org/seaside-award