Poole and Bournemouth Beaches Retain Blue Flag Status

BCP Council Announcement:

We’re thrilled to announce that our beaches in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole have retained their prestigious Blue Flag status this summer. This wonderful achievement is thanks to the hard work and partnership between the tourism and hospitality sectors and the BCP Council.

Out of 72 Blue Flag awards given in the UK, 12 were granted to our area. This means that one in six Blue Flag beaches in the UK is right here with us! This recognition continues to highlight our region as one of the world’s top coastal destinations.

Additionally, our area has received 14 Seaside Awards, celebrating the quality and beauty of our diverse coastline.

Thanks to Our Supporters

This success wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of local businesses and organizations. Special thanks to Bournemouth Coastal Business Improvement District (BID), Bournemouth Town Centre BID, Poole BID, Christchurch BID, Fired Up Collective, SOBO Beach, The Beach House, FJB Group, Rockwater, Noisy Lobster, and Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council. Together, they funded the application costs of £14,085.

Our Award-Winning Beaches

Here are the beaches that continue to benefit from Blue Flag recognition:

- Alum Chine

- Durley Chine

- Fisherman’s Walk

- Southbourne

- Sandbanks

- Shore Road

- Canford Cliffs

- Branksome Chine

- Manor Steps

- Avon Beach

- Highcliffe

- Friar’s Cliff

The Blue Flag is an international award given to well-managed beaches with excellent water quality and environmental education programs. This ongoing recognition is a testament to our commitment to maintaining and improving our beautiful seafront.

A Message from Our Leaders

Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader of BCP Council, shared her pride in our beaches:

“We are proud to have our beaches recognized as Blue Flag locations for another year. This achievement is thanks to the hard work of the council, our partners, and local businesses. Our stunning coastline is a treasure, and we ask visitors to help us keep it beautiful by picking up litter and protecting the environment for future generations.”

Continued Investment and Efforts

Last year, BCP Council invested over £2.2 million in beach maintenance, waste disposal, and seafront services. Our dedicated staff work year-round to keep our coastline pristine. We also collaborate with The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and volunteer lifeguards to ensure public safety.

Future Plans and Community Efforts

The BCP Council is committed to protecting our coastline from flooding and erosion, with over £40 million secured for these efforts. This work ensures our beaches remain safe and beautiful for years to come.

Andy Lennox, Chair of the Destination Management Board, expressed his delight in securing the funding for these awards, emphasizing the importance of our beaches to the local economy and community.

Fiona McArthur, Bournemouth Coastal BID Manager, highlighted the ongoing collaboration to ensure our beaches continue to receive these accolades, recognizing their importance to both residents and visitors.

Our Beaches Lead the Way

The BCP area holds more Blue Flags than any other UK destination, with Sandbanks receiving this honor for the 37th year in a row! In 2022, our coastline attracted 10.3 million visitors, generating £914 million for the local economy.

What Blue Flag Means

To qualify for a Blue Flag award, beaches must meet high standards in four categories: environmental education and information, water quality, environmental management, and safety and services.

Let’s celebrate this wonderful news and continue to take pride in our beautiful beaches. Thank you to everyone who contributes to making our coastline a world-class destination!