A wave of norovirus outbreaks last year has been linked to individuals swimming in a well-liked bay in Wales. The water quality in Cardiff Bay was so poor that an inflatable obstacle course on the water had to be relocated after concerns were raised by the Cardiff Council scrutiny committee. This bay, fed by the River Ely and River Taff, has been affected by sewage discharge recently.
Councilor John Lancaster criticized council officers for not taking action, urging them to collaborate with organizations like NRW and Welsh Water to tackle the issue. Norovirus, a stomach bug causing vomiting and diarrhea, easily spreads through human waste. Despite its unpleasant symptoms, the NHS notes that it typically resolves within two days.
During a committee meeting, four out of six sites tested for water quality in the bay by the Cardiff Harbour Authority showed cleanliness failures. Cllr Lancaster expressed disappointment, emphasizing the negative impact on the bay’s use by Cardiff residents and businesses.
An incident management team, led by Public Health Wales, attributed a series of illnesses in the summer of 2024 to norovirus. Cardiff Council suggested that sewage contamination was likely the source of the virus in the environment. Although the CHA used to test for viruses like norovirus, they ceased testing after not detecting any for several years.
Cllr Jennifer Burke, Cardiff Council’s cabinet member for culture, sports, and parks, defended the council’s actions, stating they are working with partners to address the issue within existing legislation constraints. She emphasized the shared responsibility with Welsh Water, Natural Resources Wales, and the Welsh Government in addressing the water quality challenges.
Aqa Park, a popular inflatable course in Cardiff Bay, had to close due to contaminated water, impacting its usual summer visitors. The Vale of Glamorgan Council announced the closure earlier this year, citing increased failed tests due to higher river flows and rainfall. The CHA clarified they have no influence over the water quality flowing into the bay.