By Jane Corscadden
Copyright belfastlive
Swimming is not permitted at two North Coast beaches after a blue-green algae alert was issued. The Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs said swimming is not permitted at Downhill and Portstewart beaches due to high levels of blue-green algae. Increased levels of algae have also been detected at Castlerock beach, but no bathing notice is in place yet. A statement was issued by DAERA for parts of Magilligan, Downhill and Portstewart strands on Monday, September 22, during regular scheduled monitoring. They said monitoring would continue and advice would be provided to bathing water operators when required. The National Trust, which manages Portstewart Strand, said algae had been detected at a “red alert level.” It urged all visitors not to swim, avoid any scum or mats on the shore, and to keep pets away from the water. A statement from Causeway Coast and Glens council said: “Council has been made aware that blue-green algae may be present in waters at Downhill Strand. Currently beach users are asked to be vigilant to the possible presence of blue green algae.” The Council advised beach users to avoid playing with scum or mats on the shore, avoid letting animals drink water, eat algae or swim, and to avoid activities such as swimming, fishing, wading, boating, and kayaking. They added: “Pet owners should ensure that their animals do not have access to this water, dogs should be kept on a lead and away from the tide line. “At this stage Council would urge vigilance at Castlerock beach.” For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
