Bathing Warning Issued For Totland And Colwell Bays Following Sewage Incident

Residents and visitors are being advised not to enter the water at Totland Bay and Colwell Bay following a sewage pollution incident which has prompted an official bathing water alert.

The warning has been issued by the Environment Agency while investigations continue into the incident affecting the west of the Isle of Wight coastline.

The Isle of Wight Council has urged people to avoid the water and keep children and animals away from affected areas as a precaution.

A number of Southern Water vehicles were seen at Totland Bay near the pier on Thursday as response efforts continued.

It is understood the incident followed a failure at a wastewater pumping station on Madeira Road in Totland, resulting in a release of treated wastewater into the sea.

In a statement, Southern Water said:

"We’re sorry—our wastewater pumping station at Madeira Rd, Totland, failed this morning, causing a release of treated wastewater.

"As a precaution, beaches from Totland to Colwell Bay are currently closed.

"We understand the impact this may cause and we are working urgently with the council to resolve the issue and safely reopen the beaches as soon as possible."

Sewage-contaminated water can contain bacteria and viruses that may pose health risks if people come into contact with it.

People who believe they may have been exposed are being advised to wash thoroughly with soap and water, as hand sanitiser may not eliminate all viruses.

Further updates are available through Southern Water and the Environment Agency’s bathing water alert service.