Fifteen Isle Of Wight Beaches Rated Good Or Excellent For Water Quality Ahead Of Boxing Day Dip

Fifteen bathing spots on the Isle of Wight have been graded good or excellent for water quality, according to the Environment Agency — “fantastic news” for anyone planning a Boxing Day swim.

The latest EA Swimfo data lists 12 beaches as excellent, including Gurnard, Cowes, East Cowes, Seagrove, St Helens, Whitecliff Bay, Yaverland, Shanklin, Ventnor, Compton Bay, Totland Bay, and Colwell Bay.

Beaches near Ryde, Bembridge, and Sandown received a “good” rating.

A County Hall spokesperson said the results are welcome news for residents and visitors alike, reflecting the ongoing work of the council, the Environment Agency, and local partners to maintain and improve water quality.

Natasha Dix, County Hall’s service director for waste, environment, and planning, said:

“We’re proud that every one of our bathing sites has achieved a positive rating this year.

"It’s a testament to the hard work of our community and partners in protecting our coastline.

"Whether you’re braving a Boxing Day swim or planning for summer, the Isle of Wight’s waters are among the best in the country.

“None-the-less, the council will continue working closely with risk management agencies to reduce Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) events and strive for even cleaner bathing waters across the Island.”