Fitzpatrick disappointed about blue flag beach results

Coleraine Alliance Councillor Barney Fitzpatrick has expressed disappointment that two beaches in the area have failed to gain blue flag status. Portrush Curran East Strand and Portballintrae’s Salmon Rock beach both failed to gain this status.

Cllr Barney Fitzpatrick said: “This is bad news for the wider Coleraine area because it could have an impact our tourism market.

“Blue flag status is vitally important for beaches, for local business and for the hospitality industry which depends on tourists.

“While there may be factors like increased rainfall that have affected water quality, this matter still must be addressed urgently to ensure that blue flag status can be achieved in these areas next year.”