Bathing waters at all three EU designated bathing beaches within the Chichester District have been classified as ‘Excellent’ – the highest classification possible.
Recent results show bathing waters at Bracklesham Bay, West Wittering, and Selsey meet the Bathing Water Directive’s strict water quality standards based on bacteria levels, placing them among the best beaches in the country for water quality. These three beaches have upheld ‘Excellent’ classification since 1995, 1998, and 2018 respectively.
“This is wonderful news for residents and visitors, and means people can enjoy the highest bathing water standards possible,” Councillor Penny Plant, Cabinet Member for Environment and Chichester Contract Services at Chichester District Council. “We are very proud to have upheld this classification for a number of years and for our beaches to be considered among the best in the country for water quality.
“Selsey bathing water was previously classified as good, but has improved significantly and has now received a rating of ‘Excellent’ for the last three years. This has been achieved through the partnership project with Southern Water and through our education and awareness-raising campaigns such as Yellow Fish, Only Rain Down the Drain and Against Litter.
“As the coronavirus restrictions continue to ease, we have seen an increase in people visiting our beaches and coastal areas. Although we want people to enjoy spending time outside after weeks of lockdown, we are urging them to stay alert by observing social distancing and hygiene measures when they are out and about.
“If you are travelling to the beach by car, all council-owned car parks are open and charging has resumed. The privately owned West Wittering Estate car park is currently operating at reduced capacity and visitors are required to pre-book a parking space in advance by visiting www.westwitteringestate.co.uk”