Portobello Beach Pollution Alert Urges Swimmers to Stay Out
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has issued a pollution incident advisory against swimming or paddling at Portobello Central beach after routine water testing found high levels of bacteria.
The alert followed a sample taken on Thursday, 11 June 2026. It remains in place until further notice.
Current Situation
SEPA has updated the electronic signs on the beach with the warning. The advisory is due to potential health risks posed by elevated bacteria levels.
Officers are investigating the cause and will consider mitigation measures if needed. Further water samples are being taken to check the extent of the issue.
Local Reaction
Alec Martin from Porty Surf Lifesaving Club described the situation as “not good enough”. The club runs water-based activities, lifesaving coaching, and essential water skills sessions at the beach, but cannot operate while the advisory is active.
“This is the first SEPA alert that advised us to stay out of the water this year,” he said. “Portobello is a designated bathing water so it should be looked after.”
Previous Incidents
SEPA advised against bathing at Portobello for 11 days during similar incidents last year. Sewage overflow alerts after heavy rain are also relatively common at the beach.
What This Means for Visitors
The beach remains open for walking, sunbathing, and general seaside use. The restriction only applies to entering the water for swimming or paddling.
Families with children, wild swimmers, and dog walkers should take particular note over the coming days.
What Happens Next
SEPA will continue monitoring the site. The advisory will stay in place until water quality at Portobello Central returns to safe levels.
Check the signs on site or the official SEPA page before heading into the water.