New statistics published today show 99% of Welsh bathing water has complied with tough European standards.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Bathing Waters in Wales results for 2017 show 80 of Wales’ 104 bathing areas were excellent. This includes popular bathing waters in Porthcawl, Tenby, Prestatyn and Barry.
In total, 103 of 104 bathing waters in Wales were compliant with the European standards making Welsh bathing water some of the best in Europe.
Welcoming the results Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths said:
“Wales has some of the most beautiful coastline which attracts thousands of visitors every year. Maintaining our bathing waters to these high standards is essential if we are to continue selling Wales as a holiday destination.
“But this is not just about those visiting Wales. A healthy environment helps to sustain our economy and improves our quality of life. With clean bathing waters, our coast and natural environment will continue to provide huge benefits to people across Wales – from rural West Wales to more urban South Wales.
“It is disappointing that despite a lot of hard work and some improvement one area still has not met the European standards but work will continue to address the issues in that area.”
Kevin Ingram, Interim Chief Executive for Natural Resources Wales, said:
“Welsh bathing waters are considered to be some of the best in Europe and once again our beaches have maintained their position with 80 out of 104 beaches achieving excellent status and 99 per cent rated as sufficient or higher.
“This is especially pleasing as the wet summer had a direct impact on water quality across the UK.“We understand how precious our beaches are to those living or visiting the Welsh coast and we will continue to work with communities, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water and local authorities to maintain and improve the results at all our bathing waters.”