Blue Flags retained across BCP beaches as Sandbanks celebrates 39th year of top seaside status
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole has retained its reputation as one of the UK’s best coastal destinations
Beaches across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have once again retained prestigious Blue Flag status, reinforcing the area’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading coastal destinations.
Six beaches along the BCP Council coastline have received the internationally recognised Keep Britain Tidy Blue Flag award this summer, recognising high standards in water quality, environmental management, safety and visitor facilities.
The beaches awarded Blue Flags are Sandbanks, Shore Road, Canford Cliffs, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk and Highcliffe Beach.
Among them, Sandbanks Beach continues its long-running success story, retaining Blue Flag status for the 39th consecutive year since the awards began.
All six beaches also received Seaside Awards, while Bournemouth, Boscombe and Avon Beach were additionally recognised with Seaside Awards for maintaining high standards of cleanliness and management.
Avon Beach did not receive a Blue Flag this year due to what the council described as an administrative error rather than any issue with water quality or beach standards.
Council officials stressed that the beach continues to meet visitors’ expectations, highlighting its maintained promenades, cafés, kiosks and amenities including a beach sauna and the popular The Noisy Lobster.
Richard Herrett, portfolio holder for destination, leisure and commercial operations, said the awards reflected the efforts of seafront teams working year-round to maintain the coastline.
“These awards highlight the consistently high standards maintained across our coastline,” he said. “While awards are important recognition, what matters most is the quality of the experience on our beaches, which we are committed to maintaining across all locations.”
The Blue Flag programme is widely regarded as one of the world’s most recognised environmental accreditations for beaches and marinas. To qualify, locations must meet strict criteria covering water quality, environmental education, accessibility, cleanliness and safety services.