“Froth” on Northam beach addressed by South West Water

A Northam resident raised concerns yesterday (October 17) about what they thought was sewage washing up along Northam beach. 

The resident reported seeing froth on the shoreline and noted, “it smells too,” prompting them to send photos to the North Devon Gazette.

The Gazette contacted both South West Water and the Environment Agency to investigate the matter.

Following an investigation, South West Water confirmed that the substance in question was not sewage but a natural algal bloom.

The Environment Agency explains on their website that large blooms of Phaeocystis, a common non-toxic algae, often form in British coastal waters during warmer months. 

When these blooms break down, they can create a frothy appearance on the water’s surface and emit an unpleasant smell, which can easily be mistaken for sewage.

Algal blooms are a natural part of the water's ecosystem, but the decomposition of the algae can produce foam and release smells similar to decomposing seaweed or rotten eggs. 

The agency advises avoiding contact with water during these events, as it is difficult to determine if a bloom is toxic just by appearance.

If there are concerns about pollution, the Environment Agency advises residents to call their hotline at 0800 807060.

South West Water told the Gazette: “The photo sent to us shows an algal bloom breaking down, which is commonly mistaken for sewage and creates a strong odour. Our teams attended Northam beach yesterday [17 October] and found no issues or evidence of sewage on the beach.”