Josh MacAlister MP has welcomed confirmation from the Environment Agency that St. Bees has been designated a priority bathing water site following its recent reclassification from Excellent to Good.
After raising concerns about the downgrade, Josh requested further investigation into the causes of the change in water quality.
The Environment Agency has now completed DNA analysis of water samples taken at St. Bees. The results indicate that faecal contamination from seabirds is currently the most significant influence on water quality. The analysis also detected markers from humans, dogs, cattle, sheep and horses, suggesting multiple contributing sources both within the wider catchment and from activity on or near the beach.
Although a “Good” rating means the water continues to meet national bathing water standards, Josh has stressed that the community expects and deserves the highest possible classification.
Josh MacAlister MP said:
“St. Bees Beach is incredibly important to our community – environmentally, socially and economically. I love walking my dogs there. While a ‘Good’ rating means the water is safe, we should be aiming for ‘Excellent’.
“I welcome the Environment Agency’s decision to designate St. Bees as a priority bathing water and to develop a detailed action plan ahead of the 2026 season. I will continue to work closely with them and local partners to ensure the necessary steps are taken to restore St. Bees to the highest standard.”
The Environment Agency has confirmed it will produce a detailed action plan ahead of the 2026 bathing season, focusing on the measures most likely to deliver improvements. The final plan will be shared with stakeholders once completed.
Josh says that he will continue to monitor progress and press for effective action to protect and enhance water quality at St. Bees.
Josh MacAlister MP 