Set in Folkestone and Hythe, South East, Folkestone is a designated coastal bathing water known for its sand and shingle beach area. The Environment Agency monitors water standards at the site, which currently holds an annual rating of Sufficient. Having been designated as an official bathing water site in 1988, it continues to serve as a key bathing spot in the local region.
The shoreline consists primarily of sand, shingle. Sediment type dictates underfoot comfort, wave energy absorption, and the water's clarity when currents stir up the seabed.
Water complies with minimum legal safety limits. However, higher bacterial levels are occasionally recorded, indicating moderate vulnerability to runoff.
Bacterial levels are highly susceptible to storm runoff. Heavy rainfall in the local catchment is likely to trigger storm overflows and agricultural runoff, rendering the water temporarily unsafe.
Tested weekly by the Environment Agency England for bacteria levels (E. coli & Intestinal Enterococci) between May and September.
Monitored as a coastal beach. Coastal beaches are subject to tidal flows and marine dilution, whereas inland lakes/rivers suffer from low water circulation, meaning bacteria can linger longer.
Southern Water Services Limited is the regional utility responsible for waste water treatment, sewage infrastructure, and storm overflow management in this catchment area.
Officially designated as a protected bathing water site in 1988. This designation mandates regular public health monitoring.
Governed under local district sanitation and environmental safety regulations in the Folkestone and Hythe area.
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