e-Digest Statistics about: Coastal and marine waters
Beaches
In 2006, 136 UK beaches were awarded the Blue Flag award, compared with 105 beaches in 2003. The European campaign was started in 1987 by the Foundation for Environmental Education in Europe and covers resort bathing beaches only. To qualify, bathing beaches have to meet certain guideline standards of the EC Bathing Water Directive as well as other criteria on beach facilities, cleanliness and safety.
In 2006, 229 beaches in England won Seaside Awards compared with 181 beaches in 2003. This scheme was launched by the Tidy Britain Group for resort and rural beaches, to complement the Blue Flag and was based on similar management criteria to those used for Blue Flag but with fewer requirements for rural beaches. All applicant beaches were required to have bathing waters which met at least the mandatory coliform standards of the Bathing Water Directive.
Working with key partners, ENCAMS has developed a new coastal recognition system which will recognise managers' ability to manage land effectively in response to the diversity of our coastline and the needs of different visitors. The Quality Coast Award will replace and build on the Seaside Awards programme. The new system has been trialed by a range of beach managers and the first applications must be submitted by November 30th 2006 for the 2007 summer bathing season. However, beach operators will also be able to apply for a winter award for certain categories as well as all year round awards.
Further Information:
- Internet Links:
- e-digest: Bathing waters
- e-digest: Coastal and marine waters
- Blue Flag Campaign
- ENCAMS Quality Coast Award
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Page last modified: 17 November 2006
Page published: 24 January 2006