A West Clare bathing area has been granted the green coast award for the first time in it’s history.
It comes as An Taisce’s report for 2024 has confirmed that all of Clare’s beaches have retained international Blue Flag Status.
It’s one of the world’s most recognised eco-labels and they’re awarded on the basis of compliance with criteria relating to water quality, facilities for visitors, beach management, and environmental education.
Inspections are carried out on beaches in-season and an award is retained or lost based on recommendations of the National and International Blue Flag juries.
Following An Taisce’s latest annual judgement, Ballycuggeran, Fanore, Kilkee, Lahinch, Mountshannon Lough Derg, Spanish Point, White Strand Miltown Malbay and White Strand Doonbeg have all retained their status.
The Kilrush Marina and the Portmagee Seasonal Visitors Pontoons, both operated by Kilrush Maritime LTD also held on to Blue Flag status.
The Green Coast Award on the other hand recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty and are considered exceptional places to visit with rich coastal heritage and diversity.
On the back of An Taisce’s adjudication this year , Carrigaholt Beach, Seafield, Bishops Quarter and Ballyalla Lake have all retained their Green Coast status.
While Quilty Beach has been adorned with the title for the first time.
