Title: Investigation into the probable cause of the 1999 failure of the EC bathing waters directive at Seaton (Devon) beach (70210103) (2000)
Author: P. Rose
Document Type: Monograph
Annotation: EA additional title info: Devon Area internal report March 2001
Abstract:
Seaton Beach (Devon) failed the European Community Bathing Waters Directive (ECBWD) faecal coliform imperative standard for 1999. It is clear from the historic data and previous work undertaken that the bacteriological water quality o f the Axe Estuary can directly affect the water quality at the beach and is very likely the cause o f previous ECBWD failures. Survey work carried out for this investigation has proved that under an ebb tide, the Axe Estuary plume can sweep along the beach westward to and past the ECBWD beach site. Storm discharges from Seaton (both 6 and 3 time dry weather flow) and Colyford STWs, Axmouth, Colyford and Horslears pumping stations were recorded during the 2000 bathing season. The stormlog data show that discharges of sewage have been occurring from STWs and pumping stations (ultimately into the Axe Estuary) during both wet and dry periods. However, very probably due to the low levels o f rainfall experience during the year 2000 bathing season, the magnitude of the flows released were insufficient to result in a beach failure, unlike the previous season of 1999. A previously unknown and illegal sewage discharge was identified from Axmouth pumping station. This was the result of sewerage failure and has been rectified by SWW. In addition to the monitored discharges from the works, further survey work has shown bacterial inputs from the River Yarty and Bruckland Stream may prove to be significant and may require further investigation.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Publication Date: 2001
Publication Place: Exeter
Subject Keywords: Water quality surveys; Water quality; Bathing Water Directive; Sewage; Effluents; Biodiversity; Bacteria; Beaches
Geographic Keywords: Seaton (Devon); Axe Estuary; East Devon catchment
Extent: 13; + figures, appendices
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:585
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