We reveal Waterford beaches to receive prestigious Blue Flag award
Four beautiful Waterford beaches have been honoured with the venerable International Blue Flag for their excellent quality. Ardmore, Clonea, Tramore and Counsellor’s Strand in Dunmore East were all awarded the honour on Friday, May 16, by An Taisce.
Dawn Wallace, Environment SEO with Waterford City and County Council, said: "We are particularly delighted that Tramore Beach regained its Blue Flag status.
"It was one of three beaches nationally that did not retain its Blue Flag for 2024. So, to not only regain the flag, but to record an ‘excellent’ rating is great news for locals and tourists alike as they flock to the coast this summer."
She continued: "Counsellor’s Strand in Dunmore East recorded vastly improved water quality, also securing an ‘excellent’ rating, which is testament to the work of the Council and local environmental groups."
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy also commended not only the Local Authority’s Environment Department, but also the work of voluntary groups that dedicate themselves to ensuring an unspoilt environment for all to enjoy.
"The work of volunteers from groups such as Clean Coasts, Tidy Towns, and ecological groups, have made huge inroads in assisting in the maintenance and management of our coastline and its amenities."
He added: "These volunteers are passionate about preserving our natural environment, whether it’s through litter picking, wildlife conservation management or developing educational programmes.
"By enhancing our natural amenities, they are heightening the enjoyment we can all derive from our beaches and coastline."
County Waterford also received six green accolades with Newtown Cove, Guillamene Cove, Kilfarrassey, Ballyquin, Curragh and Goat Island Beach all receiving a Green Coast Award, which recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty.
