Beach faces Summer lockdown

Bathing could be banned at Ballyloughane Beach as sewage threatens to pollute the sea water at Renmore.

The Galway City Tribune can reveal that following three years of sampling by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), water quality at Ballyloughane has been classified as “poor” and “vulnerable”.

The two public toilets at the beach, as well as septic tanks from local private homes, and leakages from three surface water outfalls nearby, are being blamed for the threat to water quality.

Galway City Council has conceded that unless it receives funding from Irish Water to rectify the contaminated water crux, Ballyloughane is set to be declared a ‘no bathing zone’ beach.

The City Council had previously asked for monies to sort out the water problem but the Government refused.

The City Council, in a report seen by this newspaper, has confirmed the beach is vulnerable due to “poor” water quality. The report says that the problem needs to be addressed, through infrastructural upgrade, “as a matter of urgency” in order that bathing can continue at the beach.

Independent City Councillor, Terry O’Flaherty has demanded urgent action so as to safeguard the future of Ballyloughane as a bathing beach.

The former mayor said it was scandalous that Ballyloughane Beach hasn’t secured the coveted Blue Flag status, which is a result of the poor quality water.

She added: “I firmly believe it should be the aim of the Council to strive and achieve ‘Blue Flag” status for Ballyloughane Beach. I believe that this is an aim that should be eminently achievable and would greatly enhance the coastal attractions within the city. It is long overdue that the necessary investment is made so as to upgrade this wonderful amenity.”

For more on this story, see the Galway City Tribune.