Six beaches across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have retained Blue Flag status ahead of the summer season.
The internationally recognised awards celebrate high standards in water quality, environmental management, safety and visitor facilities, with BCP Council saying the recognition reflects year-round work by seafront teams alongside businesses, community organisations and local partners across the coastline.
The beaches awarded Blue Flag status this year are Sandbanks, Shore Road, Canford Cliffs, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk and Highcliffe Beach. Sandbanks has now held Blue Flag accreditation every year since the scheme began, marking its 39th consecutive award.
All 6 Blue Flag beaches also received Seaside Awards, recognising clean, safe and well-managed coastal environments. Bournemouth, Boscombe and Avon Beach were also given Seaside Awards this year.
BCP Council confirmed Avon Beach did not receive a Blue Flag because of an administrative error, but said visitors “have confidence in its exceptional standard of care and quality throughout the year”. The council highlighted the beach’s promenade, facilities, cafés, kiosks, beach sauna and The Noisy Lobster restaurant as continuing attractions for residents and visitors to Christchurch Bay.
Councillor Richard Herrett said the awards recognise “the consistently high standards maintained across our coastline” and thanked seafront staff, partners, sponsors and businesses involved in maintaining the beaches.
The council said it will continue working with local organisations and coastal partners to help maintain clean and safe beaches throughout the summer months.
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