Barry is at the centre of renewed scrutiny after the beach failed to meet bathing water standards, prompting action from Natural Resources Wales (NRW).
NRW is now working to identify sources of pollution entering the rivers and streams feeding into the sea in both Barry and Ogmore-by-Sea.
Natural Resources Wales are investigating possible pollution sources affecting Watch House Bay in Barry and Ogmore-by-Sea. (Photos from the investigation.) (Image: Natural Resources Wales)
According to NRW’s report, 16 water samples were collected during routine monitoring at Watch House Bay, with five recording elevated levels of faecal indicator organisms.
As reported by WalesOnline, one sample, taken on June 12, 2025, recorded an “exceptionally high” reading.
NRW said: “We’ve launched a project to better understand and improve bathing water quality at Ogmore-by-Sea and Watch House Bay in Barry.
“Both sites have failed to meet required water quality standards.
“We do not yet fully know what is causing the problem, and it is likely to be due to many different reasons.”
Signs advising against swimming at Watch House Bay, Barry. (Image: Victorian Barry Experience)
The agency is adopting a “whole catchment approach” in its investigation, considering rivers, drainage infrastructure, towns, and the surrounding countryside.
Specialist officers are already on the ground testing water quality and tracking sources of pollution.
NRW said: “Improving bathing water quality is a challenge no single organisation can solve alone.
“We’re working with Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, Bridgend County Borough Council, Vale of Glamorgan Council, and Shared Regulatory Services to develop a joined-up plan for improving water quality.”
The goal is to pinpoint sources of pollution and use that evidence to inform “practical, long-term solutions.”
Natural Resources Wales are investigating possible pollution sources affecting Watch House Bay in Barry and Ogmore-by-Sea. (Photos from the investigation.) (Image: Natural Resources Wales)
NRW emphasised the need for community involvement, saying: “Local knowledge is a key part of this.
“You can help by reporting signs of pollution, sharing what you’ve seen in your area, speaking to us at events over the summer, or checking for simple issues at home like misconnected pipes.”
Warning signs advising that swimming is not recommended are in place at Watch House Bay.
Recent footage from the Surfers Against Sewage website showing poor water quality at Watch House Bay. (Image: Surfers Against Sewage)
Environmental campaign group Surfers Against Sewage has also highlighted poor water quality at both Watch House Bay and Ogmore-by-Sea on its online water quality service.
The Barry and District News has contacted Natural Resources Wales and Welsh Water for an update on any ongoing investigations and measures being taken to improve water quality at the affected locations.
A Welsh Water spokesperson said: “Bathing water quality is impacted by a number of factors and sectors. We can only tackle this in partnership with our regulators and other sectors, and we are committed to working collaboratively on this.
We are currently involved in an investigation into bathing waters at Ogmore-by-Sea and Watch House Bay to better understand what is affecting water quality in the Vale of Glamorgan and any role we can play to help drive improvement.”