Sea swimmers given all clear to return to North Down beaches
It follows the latest water tests
Sea swimmers have been given the all clear to re-enter the water at North Down beaches.
The latest tests have confirmed the water is no longer a risk to bathers.
Yesterday swimmers were advised to keep out of the water at Brompton, Ballyholme, Crawfordsburn, and Donaghadee because of concerns about E-coli levels.
A statement from DAERA said, “ All bathing sites in North Down have been retested and E-coli levels are below the acceptable threshold, no longer posing a risk to bathers’ health.”
“As a precaution, Ballyholme which was close to the threshold, will have further testing done later today. All advice against bathing has been lifted but remember, advice is not to bathe during prolonged or heavy rainfall and for up to 48 hours after such weather.”
A statement from Ards and North Down Council said, “The Council has been notified by DAERA that follow up samples taken at Ballyholme, Brompton and Donaghadee Harbour on 3rd August 2023 were within safe limits for bathing.”
“Therefore, signs advising the public not to bathe at those beaches will be removed.”
“However, given the weather forecast over the weekend we would still advise caution, as bacteriological water quality can deteriorate during and up to 48 hours after periods of heavy rainfall.”
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