SEPA carry out E.coli tests on water at Portobello Beach amid warnings to avoid swimming or paddling

E.coli tests are being carried out at a popular beach spot in Edinburgh amid warnings to avoid swimming or paddling in the water.

The public have been warned to stay away from the water at Portobello Beach after The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) said a “high bacterial result” had been found in the water.

Water testing for E.coli and intestinal enterococci has been carried out, pointing to human sewage as the potential source.

As a result, the public is being advised against bathing or paddling in the water from Pipe Lane to Joppa Rocks due to the potential risk to human health.

SEPA has activated electronic signs alerting visitors to the temporary measures while Edinburgh Council is also arranging additional signage.

Lib Dem MP for Edinburgh West Christine Jardine has led calls for a plan to clean the water.

She said: “This is an iconic location in our capital but once again people are being asked to stay out of the water because of threats to health. As Edinburgh gears up for its busiest season, this sends a terrible message.

“Residents and visitors need more information out of SEPA as to what is leading to these closures and what action is being taken to deliver a long-term solution.

“Scottish Liberal Democrats want a Clean Water Act for Scotland to update the sewage network, proper monitoring to find all the dumping and a complete ban on this filthy practice in protected areas such as bathing waters.”