Seven swimming spots in the region rated

AS bathing water season begins across Dumfries and Galloway, swimmers have been assured about the quality of seven spots in the region.

Carrick was the only location to be deemed ‘excellent’ by SEPA; but Brighouse Bay, Mossyard and Sandyhills have all been classified as good.

And there are ‘sufficient’ ratings for Dhoon Bay, Rockcliffe and Southerness.

As the 2026 seasons unfolds, SEPA say they will continue to monitor and provide information on these designated bathing waters.

Up until September 15, officials will take regular water samples and provide information including water quality classifications, monitoring results and pollution risk forecasts to help people make informed choices about where and when to bathe.

Principal specialist scientist Ruth Stidson said: “SEPA’s monitoring, forecasting and investigative work help people make informed choices throughout the bathing water season, while also helping us better understand the pressures affecting Scotland’s bathing waters over time. Improving water quality is not always straightforward. Conditions can be influenced by rainfall, wastewater infrastructure, runoff and activity across wider catchments and those pressures can vary from place to place. 

“For 30 years, SEPA’s scientific monitoring and evidence have supported long-term improvements at bathing waters across Scotland, and we continue to work with partners to identify pollution risks and target action where improvements are still needed.” 

Meanwhile, anyone visiting the area’s bathing waters is also asked to do their part by disposing of litter responsibly, avoiding feeding gulls, clearing up after dogs and helping prevent sewer blockages by not flushing wet wipes, fats, oils and grease into drains and toilets.

And as wet weather is one of the biggest factors affecting bathing water quality -as heavy rainfall can wash pollution into rivers, lochs and coastal waters - people are advised not to bathe during or one to two days after heavy rain.