EPA asked to intervene in ‘crisis' at Blackrock beach

Irish Independent

30-06-2025

Louth County Council have written to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requesting an 'urgent update' following a meeting with elected members last week, where calls for action emerged on issues such as the build-up of seaweed, the designation of bathing areas and water quality.
Public concern over water quality saw the popular Blackrock Raft Race not go ahead in its usual format last weekend. Although a series of onshore activities did run, the traditional raft race was not held on the open water.
The local authority have advised sea swimmers to use 'officially designated bathing water sites in the area,' confirming that the beach at Blackrock is currently not a designated site.
Cllr. Shane McGuinness, who represents the Blackrock and Haggardstown area on Louth County Council called for 'serious action' to be taken to resolve ongoing public concerns.
He described the situation as a 'crisis' which could only be resolved by the provision of a new waste water treatment plant for the Dundalk South area.
In a statement, Louth County Council said its officials had met with elected members of Dundalk Municipal District on Thursday last 'to discuss recent environmental concerns raised about Blackrock Beach.'
'Council officials shared updates from consultations with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Marine Institute. Both agencies judged that the recent seaweed deposits at Blackrock and the Priest's Beach are naturally occurring and part of a seasonal pattern of macro algae accumulation.'
Local councillors have been calling for the water quality at Blackrock to be tested, but the council stated that under the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 and the 2024 Amendment, Blackrock Beach is not currently a designated bathing water. As such, water quality testing is not carried out by Louth County Council at this location.
'For those wishing to swim, Louth County Council recommends using one of the officially designated bathing water sites in the area, where water quality is regularly monitored to ensure public safety and lifeguards are in attendance,' the statement continued.
The local authority stated that water quality data for nearby areas such as Inner Dundalk Bay and Castletown Estuary is available to the public via the EPA's Catchments.ie website.
"Inner Dundalk Bay is classified as a transitional waterbody with a 'Moderate' status under the Water Framework Directive.'
The meeting also heard that a new designated bathing water site can be nominated by the public, in accordance with EPA guidelines and under the Bathing Waters Regulations. Observations are invited from the public, and more information can be found in the Environment section of the Louth County Council website. Submissions will be accepted up until 26th September.
Concerns about sewage overflows and water pollution were also raised during the meeting, where the council confirmed the EPA is responsible for monitoring water quality and regulating emissions from wastewater treatment plants. 'It also has the authority to enforce environmental regulations and ensure that wastewater discharges do not cause significant harm to the environment.'
Louth County Council officials agreed to write to the EPA to request an urgent update on the water quality, particularly in the area around Blackrock.
The possibility of removing seaweed from the beach was discussed but ultimately ruled out. Dundalk Bay is a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). These designations are part of the European Union's Natura 2000 network, aimed at protecting the most seriously threatened habitats and species across Europe.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, added: 'Blackrock Beach is one of the most popular and well-loved spots in County Louth, especially during the summer. That's why it was so important for councillors and officials to come together and listen to the concerns being raised. We want to reassure the public that their voices matter and by working together, we can help protect and improve this special place for everyone to enjoy.'
Cllr Robert Nash, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, said: 'Given the strong public concern around Blackrock Beach in recent weeks, I felt it was essential that we brought everyone to the table. I requested a meeting with senior council officials and Dundalk MD councillors, and I'm glad that it took place. It was a constructive discussion where a range of views were shared, and we'll continue to keep the public informed as we move forward.'
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: 'We understand the concerns of residents and visitors regarding the recent changes at Blackrock Beach. While the seaweed and smell may be unsightly and unpleasant, it is a natural occurrence and part of the coastal ecosystem. We are committed to working with the EPA and other agencies to ensure the safety and environmental health of our coastline, and we would strongly encourage members of the public to engage in the process to nominate appropriate bathing water areas.'
He added that the council will continue to monitor the situation at Blackrock Beach and communicate with the EPA and other relevant authorities to address any issues that arise.