Christchurch Harbour campaign seeks official bathing water status

A consortium of local businesses, clubs, and associations is launching a campaign to secure official bathing water status for Christchurch Harbour in the United Kingdom. Led by Mudeford Ferry owner Andrew Golding, the group aims to improve water quality monitoring following reports of high pollution levels.

Volunteer testing conducted this summer revealed significant spikes in E. coli and other bacteria, with one instance recording 300,000 parts per 100ml—far exceeding the safe threshold of 1,000 parts per 100ml. These pollution levels have previously resulted in children requiring hospital treatment after bathing in the area.

Securing status from DEFRA would mandate routine water testing by the Environment Agency, ensuring sewage companies are notified of bacteria spikes to facilitate corrective action. The initiative is supported by the Environment Agency, BCP Council, and local MP Tom Hayes, with additional funding from Surfers Against Sewage. A comprehensive public consultation is scheduled to launch in mid-April to gather community input.