Coastguards Beach, Erme Estuary is a estuarine bathing spot situated in South Hams, South West. Designated as an official bathing water site in 2024, the site is monitored regularly by environmental authorities and holds a current annual water quality rating of Poor. In addition, dogs are permitted during winter months.
Sediment type has not yet been recorded for this site. Underfoot conditions and bank composition may vary.
Water quality regularly fails to meet safe bathing standards. Swimmers face an elevated risk of stomach infections or skin rashes due to high bacterial loads.
This bathing water is generally resilient and has a low risk of quality degradation after heavy summer storm events.
Tested weekly by the Environment Agency England for bacteria levels (E. coli & Intestinal Enterococci) between May and September.
Monitored as a transitional or estuarine bathing water. Estuarine sites experience a mix of tidal ocean flushing and river discharge, causing fluctuating salinity and water quality.
South West Water 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 2024. This designation mandates regular public health monitoring.
Governed under local district sanitation and environmental safety regulations in the South Hams area.