Home / Environment / Isle of Wight Beaches Closed After Sewage Spill
Isle of Wight Beaches Closed After Sewage Spill
21 May
Summary
- Bathers warned to avoid swimming at Totland Bay and Colwell Bay.
- Sewage release occurred due to a pump failure at Totland Bay.
- Bathing alert expected to end by Thursday evening.
Swimming is now prohibited at Totland Bay and Colwell Bay on the Isle of Wight following a sewage spill. The Isle of Wight Council has advised the public to avoid contact with the contaminated seawater, citing potential health risks from bacteria and viruses.
Southern Water reported a one-hour sewage release at Totland Bay, attributed to a pump failure. The Environment Agency estimates the bathing alert will be lifted by the end of Thursday. Health officials cautioned that while soap and water are recommended for washing, hand sanitiser may not eliminate all harmful viruses.
Adults have been specifically warned to keep children and pets away from the affected waters. This incident follows a similar, recently resolved restriction near Cowes and East Cowes, which was lifted after two sewage spills occurred within a single week.
