A popular swimming spot in Howth has become the latest Dublin beach to be placed under a ‘Do Not Swim’ notice.
Fingal County Council has issued the warning for Claremont Beach after water sample results classified the bathing water as “poor”.
The notice is expected to remain in place for three days, with bathers advised not to enter the water while the warning is active.
The council said the cause of the elevated bacterial levels is not yet known. However, it is suspected that the contamination could be linked to impacts from animals and birds, as well as urban surface water entering the bathing area.
“Investigations are currently being undertaken to identify any potential causes that may have contributed to these elevated bacterial levels,” Fingal County Council said.
A further water sample is due to be taken on Thursday, with the results expected by Sunday.
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Claremont Beach is now one of seven Dublin bathing spots where restrictions or ‘Do Not Swim’ notices are currently in place.
Velvet Strand in Portmarnock is also affected, along with Dollymount Strand, Sandymount Strand, Half Moon, Rush North Beach and Front Strand Beach in Balbriggan.
The latest warning comes during the summer bathing season, when Dublin’s beaches are particularly popular with swimmers and families.
Bathing water quality can be affected by a number of factors, including heavy rainfall, surface water run-off and contamination from animals. Elevated levels of bacteria can increase the risk of illness for people who enter the water.
Fingal County Council will assess the latest results before deciding whether the notice at Claremont Beach can be lifted.
In the meantime, anyone planning to swim at Claremont Beach is advised to follow the council’s warning and stay out of the water until the restriction has been removed.
