Cleethorpes continues to miss out on blue flag

Blue flags have been awarded to 72 beaches this year

Cleethorpes beach has again missed out on getting a blue flag award, after losing the status in 2021 due to a sewage discharge in the water.

To achieve a blue flag, a beach must meet over 30 criteria set by the award organiser Keep Britain Tidy, including good water quality.

A North East Lincolnshire Council spokesperson said: “We know how important blue flag status is to residents and visitors, and we’re working with our partners in the Environment Agency and Anglian Water with a view to regaining blue flag status as soon as possible for our wonderful beaches.”

Elsewhere in Lincolnshire, beaches at Mablethorpe, Skegness and Sutton on Sea have all received the internationally recognised status.

'True testament'

Councillor Craig Leyland, leader of East Lindsey District Council, said: “As a council we’re so pleased that three of our fantastic beaches here on the Lincolnshire coast have received the coveted blue flag award once again!

“This is a true testament to the work of officers across the council who take great pride in keeping our beaches looking their best all year round. But also the countless volunteers who work alongside us, caring for our sites by litter picking and educating other residents and visitors on the importance of keeping our beaches clean and safe.”

Keep Britain Tidy awards blue flags to UK beaches if they meet high standards in quality, cleanliness, safety, and have a range of facilities for the public.

The organisation said to achieve a blue flag, a beach must meet strict criteria, including meeting water quality standards and providing environmental education.

There must also be litter bins and toilets, no dogs should be allowed during the bathing season, and lifeguards and life-saving equipment must also be provided.

Chief executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE said: “Blue flag locations are free for all to enjoy, with visitors able to experience the same quality as destinations like Spain or Trinidad and Tobago without the environmental impact or price tag of flying."

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