West Kirby water quality history

Explore historical Environment Agency samples and annual bathing water classifications for West Kirby in Wirral.

West Kirby's sandy beach is approximately two kilometres long and faces south west over the Dee estuary. The designated area is at the north eastern extent of the estuary which is nationally and internationally protected as a site of importance for seabirds. A large stretch of sand is exposed at the bathing water at low tide. There are four small islands close to the beach which can be reached on foot at low tide. Bathing Water samples are taken on the seaward side off the walkway around the Marine Lake. In 2023/24 a major flood resilience project was completed that comprises a sea defence wall along the esplanade and behind the beach and Marine Lake.

Available sample history
1991 to 2026
Samples
730
Latest official classification
Sufficient (2025)

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Annual classification history

Official assessments and historical estimates are labelled separately. Missing years are not filled in.

Available annual results, newest first
YearClassificationAssessment source
2025SufficientOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2024SufficientOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2023GoodOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2022ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2021ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2019ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2018ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2017ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2016ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2015ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2014ExcellentOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2013GoodOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2012GoodOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2011GoodOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2010GoodOfficial Environment Agency assessment
2009SufficientHistorical estimate
2008SufficientHistorical estimate
2007SufficientHistorical estimate
2006SufficientHistorical estimate
2005SufficientHistorical estimate
2004SufficientHistorical estimate
2003SufficientHistorical estimate
2002SufficientHistorical estimate
2001PoorHistorical estimate
2000PoorHistorical estimate
1999PoorHistorical estimate
1998PoorHistorical estimate
1997PoorHistorical estimate
1996PoorHistorical estimate
1995PoorHistorical estimate
1994PoorHistorical estimate
1993PoorHistorical estimate
1992PoorHistorical estimate
1991PoorHistorical estimate

Source: Environment Agency / Swimfo. Data retrieved 16 October 2026. Historical trends do not describe conditions today; check Swimfo and local notices for current advice.

Nearby bathing waters