After years of water quality concerns at some of Fingal’s most popular beaches, new figures show a major turnaround across the county’s coastline.
Fingal’s bathing water quality has improved significantly over the past year, according to the latest report from the Environmental Protection Agency.
The EPA found that 98 per cent of bathing waters across Ireland met or exceeded minimum standards in 2025, with several Fingal beaches recording improved classifications.
Fingal has 10 designated bathing areas, with five now classified as “Excellent” following improvements at both Skerries and Sutton.
Loughshinny and Portrane have also improved and are now rated “Good”, alongside Rush South Beach.
Front Strand in Balbriggan has meanwhile achieved “Sufficient” status after what Fingal County Council described as a number of challenging years.
The council said the latest report reflects “sustained improvements” in water quality management across the county and pointed to targeted investment, monitoring and collaboration as key factors behind the progress.
Mayor of Fingal, Tom O’Leary, welcomed the findings.
“The fact that Fingal no longer has beaches classified as Poor reflects a huge amount of work, commitment and collaboration,” he said.
“With the majority of our beaches now rated Excellent or Good, this is something we can all take pride in as we continue to protect and enhance these valuable public amenities.
“Our ambition is clear, we want to see every beach in Fingal reach Excellent status, and we will continue to invest and work towards achieving that goal.”
David Storey, Director of Environment at Fingal County Council, said climate change and increasingly intense rainfall are now presenting fresh challenges for bathing water quality.
“The EPA report highlights that climate change and increasingly intense rainfall are now key challenges for bathing water quality,” he said.
“In Fingal, where the majority of our beaches are now classified as Excellent or Good and are a valued amenity for communities and visitors alike, this underlines the need for ongoing vigilance and sustained investment to protect and maintain these high standards and ensure these natural assets remain safe and enjoyable for all.”
As summer approaches, the council is also urging beach users to avoid littering and dog fouling, warning that both can have a direct impact on water quality and public health.
Swimmers are being advised to check the latest water quality updates before visiting beaches through Beaches.ie