Annual beach water quality ratings for Sussex

Thursday, 27 November 2025 05:00

The Environment Agency has released its latest annual beach water quality ratings, and while the majority of Sussex’s coastline has been given a clean bill of health, a small number of problem spots continue to fall short of expected standards.

Most beaches across West and East Sussex have once again achieved either good or excellent status, reflecting ongoing efforts by local authorities, environmental groups and water companies to improve bathing water conditions. Popular destinations including Selsey, Brighton, Littlehampton, Eastbourne, Camber and Bexhill all scored highly, reassuring swimmers and visitors as winter sea-swimming continues to grow in popularity.

But two locations have again been flagged as areas of concern. Aldwick, in Bognor Regis, has been given a poor rating for the fourth year in a row, continuing a trend that has frustrated residents and local campaigners. The consistently low classification means the Environment Agency is required to display warnings at the beach, advising against swimming due to potential risks from pollution.

The latest results also show Worthing Beach House has received a poor rating. It’s the second Sussex beach this year to be marked at the lowest level.

Under the Environment Agency’s national system, bathing waters are tested throughout the summer season for bacteria linked to pollution, with ratings based on four years of data. A “poor” rating does not close a beach, but it does trigger official advice against bathing and can lead to increased scrutiny of pollution sources such as sewage discharges, agricultural run-off and urban drainage.

You can see all the beach quality data here: Bathing water quality

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