Water quality ratings released for Worthing and nearby beaches

Water quality ratings for beaches across Worthing and nearby coastal areas have been published, showing a mix of classifications from Excellent to Poor based on national monitoring data.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs assessed 30 beaches across East and West Sussex using four categories, Excellent, Good, Sufficient and Poor. The results are based on four years of testing by the Environment Agency, which monitors levels of bacteria including E coli and intestinal enterococci to assess potential health risks to bathers. Water quality can be influenced by factors such as storm overflows, agricultural runoff, wildlife and other local environmental conditions.

Within the local area, Shoreham Beach and Southwick Beach are rated Excellent, the highest classification.

Beaches at Littlehampton, Goring, Worthing and Lancing are rated Good, indicating generally acceptable water quality.

Worthing Beach House is rated Poor, placing it in the lowest category and among locations where swimming is advised against in national comparisons.

Worthing Borough Council has previously said it is working to improve public signage and is preparing for the introduction of a citizen science facility, which will allow residents to take part in monitoring local seawater quality.