A surge of norovirus infections last year has been connected to individuals swimming in a popular bay in Wales. The water quality in Cardiff Bay deteriorated to the extent that an inflatable obstacle course floating there had to be relocated due to concerns raised by the Cardiff Council scrutiny committee. The bay, a freshwater lake fed by the River Ely and River Taff, has been impacted by sewage discharge in recent times.
Councilor John Lancaster criticized council officers for not taking action on the issue, emphasizing the need for collaboration with entities like NRW (Natural Resources Wales) and Welsh Water to address the problem. Norovirus, a stomach virus causing vomiting and diarrhea, spreads easily through human waste. While it can be unpleasant, symptoms typically improve within about 48 hours, as noted by the NHS.
During a recent committee meeting, four out of the six water quality testing sites in the bay recorded a ‘fail’ for cleanliness, prompting Cllr Lancaster to express disappointment. Concerns were raised about the potential negative impact of poor water quality on the bay’s utility for Cardiff residents and businesses.
An incident management team chaired by Public Health Wales attributed a series of illnesses in the summer of 2024 to norovirus. Cardiff Council indicated that the virus likely originated from sewage contamination in the environment. The Cardiff Harbour Authority previously tested water for viruses like norovirus but discontinued after several years without detection.
In response to criticism, Cllr Jennifer Burke, Cardiff Council’s cabinet member for culture, sports, and parks, defended the council’s efforts in partnership with Welsh Water and Natural Resources Wales. She highlighted the limitations imposed by existing legislation and emphasized the need for broader cooperation involving the Welsh Government.
A popular attraction, Aqa Park, which had to vacate Cardiff Bay due to water contamination concerns, used to attract numerous visitors annually since its establishment in 2022. Vale of Glamorgan Council disclosed the park’s relocation in March.
A spokesperson for the Cardiff Harbour Authority cited increased rainfall and river flows as factors contributing to the rise in failed water tests, emphasizing the lack of control over upstream water quality entering the bay.