Ayr south beach water quality 'Good' for first time in four years
It had previously been classified as 'Poor'
Ayr south beach has received a ‘Good’ classification for the first time in four years.
The water quality had previously been considered ‘Poor’ by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and the beach was at risk of losing its bathing water status.
Projects worth millions of pounds have been carried out to make improvements, including storage upgrades at nearby wastewater treatment works and a sewer overflow system at Belleisle.
More work will be carried out in future to further improve the water quality by connecting properties, which currently discharge into the River Doon, to the public sewerage system.
Ayr MSP Siobhian Brown has also worked with local people to raise awareness of the action they can take to protect the beach. She said: “We have been working hard for years because we never wanted Ayr to lose its bathing water status. There has been a significant programme of improved pollution control measures.
“I also have to pay tribute to members of the community. There are groups such as Don’t Trash Ayr, Ayr Rotary and Alloway Rotary who take pride in our beach and regularly litter pick to help keep it clean.
“We can all continue to do our bit by not flushing wipes, cotton buds or sanitary items down the toilet. None of these items should be there.”
Terry A’Hearn, Chief Executive of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said: “Improving Scotland’s water environment is a key priority for SEPA, and that includes the bathing waters so many of us enjoy. The success at Ayr (South Beach) clearly demonstrates the bold and timely action that can come from partnership working."
Keep Scotland Beautiful also delivered a campaign “My Beach Your Beach” with funding from the Scottish Government. CEO Barry Fisher said: “This campaign recorded a 16% increase in visitors to the beach checking bathing water quality information, showing an increased awareness at a site where real time information is available.
“Locals and visitors have become more aware of the actions that they can take to protect the sand and sea - including binning litter or taking it home, ensuring dog poo is picked up and removed, and not feeding the gulls. We’d encourage everyone to heed this advice not just in the summer, but at all times of the year.”