Probe into issues at beaches with the worst water quality in Wales

THE reasons why two Welsh beaches have water that is so polluted people are advised not to swim are the subject of a new investigation.

- TAITE JOHNSON

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has launched a programme of testing and investigation to understand where pollution is entering rivers and streams which drain into the sea at Watch House Bay in Barry and Ogmore-by-Sea.

The two beaches in south Wales are the only bathing spots out of 114 that are monitored in Wales to have their water quality formally designated as "poor" by NRW, the nation's environmental watchdog, and where people are advised not to swim. Warning signs have been placed at both beaches.

Ogmore-by-Sea has been classified as "poor" for three consecutive years since 2023. Watch House Bay was classified as "poor" for the first time in 2023, improved to "sufficient" in 2024 but was "poor" again in 2025.

Natural Resources Wales said the project aims to:

■ Understand what is affecting water quality across the whole catchment area, from rivers and streams to the sea;

■ Identify the main sources of pollution, whether from drainage systems, towns, or the surrounding countryside;

■ Take action based on evidence, testing practical solutions that will lead to lasting improvements.

All of the designated bathing spots in Wales are tested at least eight times a year. Based on the testing last year, 78 were classified as excellent, 26 were good and six were sufficient. Just Ogmore-by-Sea and Watch House Bay were poor.