Jersey’s seas cleaner than UK average

Bathing waters at the Island’s most popular beaches were once again cleaner than the UK average in 2012.

 

All sampled bathing waters in Jersey passed the European ‘imperative standard’ and 12 out of 16 beaches passed the highest quality ‘guide standard’. Jersey’s pass rate for the guide standard was 75% compared to the UK’s 60%.

 

The Department of the Environment carries out the sampling of bathing water to strict European standards. Between May and September each year, officers measure the number of bacteria at 16 Island beaches.

 

Those that passed the top Guide Standard were: La Haule, Havre des Pas, Green Island, Grouville, Bouley Bay, Grève de Lecq, Plémont, Watersplash, Le Braye, Beauport, St Brelade and Portelet.  2012 results were not as good as the previous year due to the high rainfall causing run off into the bays.

 

The Minister for Planning and Environment, Deputy Rob Duhamel said “The results reflect the work undertaken to tackle pollution by the Department. The Department’s pollution prevention work, the control of the spreading of farmyard slurry and messages to marine users will all have had a positive effect.

 

“All Islanders can help us to make sure our beaches stay clean, from dog walkers who use the beaches to boat owners who can help by emptying their holding tanks appropriately. Homeowners can check that their property is connected to the correct drainage system, and those that are connected to septic tanks should ensure these are maintained and not overflowing.”

 

The Minister for Economic Development, Senator Alan Maclean, said “The fact that Jersey bathing waters are yet again cleaner than the UK is a great boost for tourism.”