Keep Scotland Tidy News
The 2012 Seaside and Blue Flag beaches have been announced
Wednesday 30th May 2012 14:04 pm
At an event held in Portobello today, Wednesday 30th May, it was announced that a total of 61 Scottish beaches now hold the coveted Seaside Award status, given for 2012 by the country’s leading charity for the environment, Keep Scotland Beautiful. Eight will also now be able to fly the internationally-acclaimed Blue Flag. Both awards, given annually, recognise high standards of cleanliness, safety, and water quality.This year’s total equals the previous record number of such awards given out by Keep Scotland Beautiful. All award beaches must be put forward for an award. The application process culminates in a National Beach Jury meeting to approve candidates based on their applications and the assessment visit from the previous year.
Seaside Award beaches are split into two categories – Rural (15 criteria) and Resort (30 criteria). Award criteria address several themes including water quality, safety, cleanliness, management and information provision. Blue Flag beaches must achieve 32 criteria including ‘Guideline’ water quality and the provision of environmental education initiatives. There are 46 countries worldwide whose beaches are recognised by the Blue Flag award.
Derek Robertson, Keep Scotland Beautiful’s Chief Executive who attended an award event today, said: “With an increasing number of people choosing to take their holidays at home in Scotland, there has never been a better time to enjoy your local beach. The Seaside & Blue Flag Awards highlight that these beaches are an important resource to the local economy and that they are your beaches to enjoy.
“There is something for everyone amongst this year’s winners - from large beaches with lifeguarded swimming areas and bustling promenades, to secluded bays which are havens for wildlife, and windswept beaches perfect for wind & kite surfing.”
He added: “Over the last 12 years, the number of Seaside Awards in Scotland has more than quadrupled. There were just 13 in 2000, so I would like to pay tribute to all the hard work that goes in to achieving and keeping these awards by local authorities and communities, and I would encourage everyone, particularly in this economic climate, to make use of the fantastic beaches we have around the Scottish coast this summer.
“I am particularly delighted that Scotland can fly eight Blue Flags, and to welcome the City of Edinburgh to the award scheme this year”.
A map showing all the award winning beaches with descriptions, directions, facilities and pictures can be found at <<34>>. There is also an option for people to rate their favourite award beaches.