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E.Coli levels at north coast bay still treble the "poor" threshold

E.Coli levels at north coast bay still treble the

Thursday 16 May 2024

E.Coli levels at north coast bay still treble the "poor" threshold

Thursday 16 May 2024


Follow-up tests on the quality of water at Grève de Lecq have shown continued pollution in the bay, with an investigation into high E.coli levels so far proving inconclusive.

Swimming remains discouraged at the north coast beach, as latest results of water sampling showed 1,800 parts E.coli per 100ml of water – more than three-and-a-half times the threshold figure of 500 for 'poor' quality water.

An update from the Infrastructure Department included the latest reading for Grève de Lecq, as well as comparative figures for other sites on the north and west coast: Bonne Nuit and the Watersplash both registered figures of below 10.

Investigative work has been taking place following the high reading of 3,300 parts E.coli per 100ml earlier in the week, which prompted official warnings to islanders to avoid swimming at Grève de Lecq.

However attempts to identify the source of the pollution have been described as "inconclusive", with further samples taken and results expected today.

Video: An separate investigation into whether the Water Pollution Law was breached when a problem at the Bellozanne plant led under-treated sewage to flow into St Aubin’s Bay last June is still ongoing almost a year later.

The update stated: "The Pollution Control team met with the drainage team – based on that discussion, they are content that the pumping stations are operating as expected."

Clinicians from the Health Department have been asked to consider E.coli if patients exhibit gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly if they have a history of sea swimming or exposure to water in the affected area.

This week's problem follows an incident which saw swimmers urged to avoid St Aubin's Bay for three days last June.

An investigation into this incident is still ongoing, the Government confirmed this week.

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