Update 10 July: Fisherrow Sands bathing water samples show no risk to public
Date published: 10 July 2024
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have updated their advice on bathing at Fisherrow Sands after the latest water quality samples showed no risk to the public.
A sample taken at Fisherrow Sands bathing water on Monday, 8th July showed water quality had returned to satisfactory levels and signage advising against bathing was removed.
Signage was changed on Thursday, 4th July to advise against bathing as a precautionary measure after analysis of routine samples indicated a high bacterial result. SEPA liaised closely with East Lothian Council and Scottish Water.
A spokesperson for SEPA said:
“Following visual checks of the beach and water sampling by our officers, SEPA have confirmed there is no impact on water quality at Fisherrow Sands bathing water and have removed the signs advising against bathing.
“Water sampling will continue to take place throughout the bathing season as part of routine testing.
“We continue to work with our partners to improve Scotland’s water environment and make our summer visits to the beach safer and more enjoyable.”
Notes to editors
Find bathing water profiles and sampling results on SEPA's Bathing Waters web page.
Date published: 04 July 2024
As a result of analysis of routine samples, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have indicated a high bacterial result at the Fisherrow Sands bathing water. As this has the potential to impact human health, signage has been posted to advise the public.
A routine sample taken by The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has indicated a high bacterial result at Fisherrow Sands bathing water.
We are temporarily advising against bathing and paddling whilst we investigate, due to the potential human health risk. Signs are being posted to indicate this.
SEPA are liaising closely with East Lothian Council and Scottish Water, and we will continue to work together to monitor the situation.
A spokesperson for SEPA said: “SEPA are aware of a high bacterial result at Fisherrow Sands bathing water.
“We are currently investigating the cause of this high result and if required we will explore any mitigation measures. Further water samples will be taken from the bathing water to determine any on-going impact.
“SEPA’s electronic sign at Fisherrow Sands has been changed to advise against bathing and paddling. This will remain in place until the water quality returns to a satisfactory level.”