Havant Borough Council is delighted to have retained Blue Flag status for its 33rd consecutive year at Beachlands Central, Hayling Island. This is the stretch of beach which runs from the Fun Fair to the Inn on the Beach.
The international Blue Flag, awarded by the “Keep Britain Tidy” campaign, recognises clean and safe stretches of coastline that promote our environmental education and offering of excellent visitor facilities.
The criteria to qualify for a Blue Flag include the provision of first aid facilities, clean toilets, recycling facilities and access for disabled visitors. The water is continuously tested, by the Environment Agency, during the summer season to check that it meets the strict bathing water quality standards and winners must also show commitment to environmental management and education.
Whilst this highlights the collective efforts of council staff, volunteers, residents, and businesses ensuring our beaches and accompanying facilities provide safety and enjoyment for those that visit, it demonstrates the continued and increasing importance of keeping our borough’s beaches as clean and safe as we possibly can.
Nationally, the Blue Flag summer season runs from 15 May to 30 September this year.
Further information about the Blue Flag Award can be found at www.keepbritaintidy.org