Mablethorpe and Sutton on Sea, the charming coastal towns of Lincolnshire, have once again achieved a remarkable feat by retaining the prestigious International Blue Flag Award. This recognition serves as a testament to our local area’s commitment to maintaining high environmental standards and providing a pristine beach experience for visitors to enjoy.
In this article, we will explore the significance of the Blue Flag Award, Mablethorpe & Sutton’s efforts to meet its criteria, the benefits it brings to our towns, and the challenges faced in maintaining this esteemed status.
What is the International Blue Flag Award?
The International Blue Flag Award is an internationally recognised eco-label for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. It acts as a symbol of excellence, indicating that the awarded site meets stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria.
The Blue Flag Award is administered within the UK by the Keep Britain Tidy charity, and internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), which is recognized in over 50 countries worldwide.
Mablethorpe’s commitment to environmental standards
Nestled along the stunning Lincolnshire coastline, the towns of Mablethorpe and Sutton on Sea boasts not only natural beauty but also a strong dedication to environmental preservation. Our town’s residents and local authorities have implemented numerous measures to safeguard our surroundings, ensuring our local area remains an idyllic destination for both residents and tourists.
Meeting the criteria for the Blue Flag Award
Earning the Blue Flag Award requires meeting stringent criteria across various categories. This stretch of the Lincolnshire coastline has excelled in areas such as water quality and safety, environmental education and information, environmental management and conservation, and safety and services provided. Through regular water testing, the town ensures that its beaches meet the highest standards for both cleanliness and safety.
In addition, our beaches actively educate visitors about environmental conservation and provide comprehensive information about local ecosystems and wildlife. You will find info boards located all along the promenade and public footpaths that describe the history of the beach and what wildlife you can expect to see.
Benefits of the Blue Flag Award for Mablethorpe & Sutton
The International Blue Flag Award has brought significant benefits to our local area and community. Firstly, the award has enhanced the town’s reputation as a premier coastal destination, attracting both domestic and international tourists seeking our golden sandy beaches.
This increase in tourism has positively impacted local businesses, leading to a boost in revenue and employment opportunities. Moreover, the local commitment to environmental standards has resulted in improved water quality and a healthier ecosystem, benefiting all those who wish to go for a paddle or a swim in our seas!
Pride of local residents
The residents of Mablethorpe and Sutton on Sea take great pride in the town’s achievement of the Blue Flag Award.
The reaction from locals on social media reveals a deep sense of satisfaction and pride in being part of a community that places such importance on environmental sustainability. The award has encouraged a stronger sense of community involvement, with residents actively participating in efforts to maintain the high standards necessary to retain the Blue Flag status.
The Mablethorpe Wombles and Sutton On Sea Beachcare are among a number of local community groups that were set up to help keep our local area litter free, which helps directly towards maintaining our Blue Flag status.
Challenges faced in maintaining the Blue Flag status
While both Mablethorpe and Sutton have successfully retained the Blue Flag Award this year, we face certain challenges in maintaining this status.
One such challenge is dealing with seasonal fluctuations in tourist numbers. During peak times, our towns experience a significant increase in visitors, making it more demanding to keep the beaches clean and preserve the natural environment.
Striking a balance between tourism and environmental sustainability is an ongoing challenge that our towns continue to address through community engagement and effective management strategies.
Discover Mablethorpe Beach
Plan your day to the seaside with our Mablethorpe Beach guide! Explore the promenade and find the perfect location to sit down for a portion of fish and chips, or find the nearest bar for that much-needed refreshing pint!
Our local area’s retention of the International Blue Flag Award is a testament to both of the resident’s unwavering commitment to environmental excellence. This award not only signifies the area’s outstanding natural beauty but also highlights the town’s dedication to maintaining cleanliness, safety, and sustainability.
Both Mablethorpe and Sutton on Sea serve as an inspiration to other coastal communities, demonstrating the immense benefits that can be derived from prioritizing environmental stewardship and providing a high-quality beach experience for visitors of all ages.
