15 bathing spots on the Isle of Wight rated good or excellent
The council says its 'fantastic news for any Boxing Day dippers'
The Environment Agency (EA) has graded 15 bathing spots on the Isle of Wight good or excellent for water quality in “fantastic news” for Islanders planning a Boxing Day dip.
EA Swimfo data lists 12 waters as excellent – by Gurnard, Cowes, East Cowes, Seagrove, St Helens, Whitecliff Bay, Yaverland, Shanklin and Ventnor, Compton Bay, Totland Bay and Colwell Bay.
Those marked good were next to Ryde, Bembridge and Sandown.
A County Hall spokesperson said the latest data was fantastic news for residents and visitors alike, and particularly for anyone planning a Boxing Day dip.
The results, they said, reflect the continuing commitment of the EA, local partners and the council to maintain and enhance water quality.
Natasha Dix, County Hall’s service director for waste, environment and planning, said: “We’re proud that every one of our bathing sites has achieved a positive rating this year.
“It’s a testament to the hard work of our community and partners in protecting our coastline. Whether you’re braving a Boxing Day swim or planning for summer, the Isle of Wight’s waters are among the best in the country.
“None-the-less the council will continue working closely with risk management agencies to reduce Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) events and strive for continually cleaner bathing waters across the Island.”