Top marks for Island’s beaches

It’s a big improvement on 2012 when 75% of beaches passed the higher standard. The Environment department say it could be down to last year being one of the driest summers on record and therefore fewer pollutants washing away into the sea.

The tests are carried out each year by the department between May and September to make sure the bathing water is meeting the strict European standards.

Environment Minister Deputy Rob Duhamel said: “I’m pleased to see an improvement in the pass rate for Jersey beaches compared to 2012. The results are a continuing reflection of the excellent work by the department to raise awareness of the causes and impact of water pollution.

“Our Environmental Protection team works with schools, commercial businesses, marine users, rural economy businesses and domestic households to foster good practice, for example, checking septic tanks and drainage systems, and where farmers are concerned, using only the appropriate amount of fertiliser on fields. The message seems to be getting through.”

Director of Jersey Tourism David de Carteret said: “Once again, Jersey has been recognised for the quality of its environment which is so important to the promotion of the Island as a visitor destination. These are excellent results for our sea water, which will be welcomed by everyone in the tourism industry as well as Island residents.”

The Environment department will start monitoring the Island’s bathing waters every week from Monday 12 May.

The 14 beaches passing the top ‘guide standard’ were:

• La Haule

• Victoria Pool

• Havre des Pas

• Green Island

• Grouville

• Archirondel

• Rozel

• Grève de Lecq

• Plémont

• Watersplash

• Le Braye

• Beauport

• St Brelade

• Portelet