Blue Flags set to fly as visitors urged to leave only footprints

Award-winning beaches across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have once more scooped more Blue Flags than any other UK destination in this year’s awards.
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Award-winning beaches across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have once more scooped more Blue Flags than any other UK destination in this year’s awards.

Environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy announced its iconic Blue Flags for excellent water quality, and our three towns have been confirmed with 12 awards in total with 14 additional Seaside Awards, which celebrate the quality and diversity of our coastline.

The recognition follows previous awards* for our coastline after Bournemouth was included on Trip Advisor’s list of the 25 best beaches in Europe 2023.

The news comes as BCP Council relaunches its Leave Only Footprints campaign to encourage visitors to help keep our stunning coastline and open spaces clean.

Achieving the Blue Flag accolade for the 36thtime in Poole was Sandbanks, which has received the recognition every year since the scheme was launched, with Shore Road, Canford Cliffs and Branksome Chine also being honoured.

In Christchurch, Highcliffe Beach, Friars Cliff and Avon Beach were honoured for the second year in a row and in Bournemouth, Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Manor Steps, Fisherman’s Walk and Southbourne received the flags.

Under the banner, Leave Only Footprints, beachgoers are invited to enjoy our award-winning beaches and clear up at the end of the day, take litter home or use the bins provided.