James Wild MP has welcomed the Environment Agency’s latest results showing further improvements in bathing water quality at all three designated sites in North West Norfolk. Hunstanton (Main) and Hunstanton (Old) have both been rated “Good” for 2025. Heacham has also made progress, achieving the “Sufficient” standard after several years in which natural factors, such as seabird activity, influenced its rolling four-year assessment.
The Environment Agency confirmed that single-year results for both 2023 and 2024 would have placed Heacham in the “Good” category, with E. coli meeting “Excellent” standards. DNA analysis, supported by government funding, showed that seabird waste washed in at high tide was the main factor affecting sample results, rather than wastewater or storm overflows.
James has been closely involved throughout, raising concerns with stakeholders and supporting measures to improve water quality for residents, visitors, and the local tourism and hospitality sector.
Commenting on the Bathing Water classifications released by the Environment Agency, James Wild MP said:
“The improvements in bathing water quality at all three beaches are good news for residents as well as visitors and our local tourism and hospitality businesses.
“Since being elected, I have worked with the Environment Agency, Anglian Water, local council, and others particularly to address issues at Heacham and it is encouraging to see the better water quality.
“It is important that these improvements are sustained in the future and I welcome plans for further investment in North West Norfolk, including Hunstanton.”
