Warning issued over Blackpool water quality

Blackpool tourism chiefs have been warned that the town could become derelict in the future if action is not taken to improve the water quality across its beaches.

This is according to Dr Robert Keirle of the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), who told the Blackpool Gazette that the north-west resort could see a sharp reduction in visitor numbers if the issues are not addressed.

Recent environmental analysis of the area has indicated that stretches of coastline in Blackpool and St Annes are "potential health hazards".

Mr Keirle warned that investment in the region could be wasted if the beaches are not cleaned up, as tourists will "turn away in their droves".

"I would not take my family to a poor quality beach, I wouldn't want that risk," he told the publication.

"If these beaches fail and are closed, the socio-economic impact for Blackpool will be massive."

Despite Blackpool's apparent failings, the latest issue of the MCS Good Beach Guide has suggested that overall beach quality in the UK is at one of its highest points for 25 years.

Posted by Joseph Hutton