Swimmers are banned from entering sea at Dover harbour after scientists discover ‘above normal’ levels of E-coli bacteria in the water
- Test routines revealed ‘above normal’ levels of E-coli bacteria at Dover harbour
- The Port of Dover has closed the area to swimmers and water activities
- Authorities advised to keep the harbour shut until more information is available
Swimmers have been banned from entering the sea at Dover harbour where abnormal levels of E-coli bacteria were discovered in the water.
Test routines revealed ‘above normal’ levels of E-coli bacteria in the water and visitors at the Kent landmark were warned not to swim by the harbour until further notice.
The Port of Dover has now closed the area to swimmers and water activities and there are currently no reports of ill health.
Test routines revealed ‘above normal’ levels of E-coli bacteria in the water at Dover harbour. Pictured: Lewis Pugh touches the harbour wall in Dover as he completes Channel swim
A spokesperson said: ‘We would like to inform our community that unfortunately water standards were not met following our routine tests.
‘There have been above normal E-coli bacterial levels indicated in these samples.
‘The health and safety of our customers and community is of the utmost importance to us and therefore we have taken these measures as a precaution. There are no reports of ill health.’
The decision comes after discussions with Dover District Council and the Environment Agency.
The Port of Dover has now closed the area to swimmers and water activities and there are currently no reports of ill health
Authorities advised to keep the harbour shut until more information is available.
Further tests are due to take place today and tomorrow with results expected on Tuesday.
The spokesperson added: ‘We are working with external agencies in order to lift the restriction at the earliest opportunity.
‘Port of Dover would like to apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.’