UK and Welsh Governments Announce New Rules of Bathing Water Regulations

For the first time in over a decade, the UK and Welsh governments are introducing updated rules aimed at improving the cleanliness and safety of waterways. These reforms are designed to enhance protections for bathing waters and ensure they meet modern environmental and public health standards.

One of the major changes includes removing fixed seasonal dates from regulations, allowing for a more adaptable approach to monitoring water quality. Additionally, the definition of ‘bathers’ will be broadened to include not just swimmers but also those engaged in water sports such as paddleboarding and surfing.

Expansion of Bathing Water Sites

Starting in May 2025, applications for new designated bathing water sites in England and Wales will reopen. Any prospective locations will be evaluated based on newly updated standards, which are expected to be formally enacted later this year.

Water Minister Emma Hardy emphasized the importance of these changes, stating:
"Local communities take great pride in their bathing water sites, but ensuring they are clean and safe is crucial. These updated regulations will help expand access to waterways while improving their overall quality."

Similarly, Wales’s Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, who oversees climate change policies, highlighted Wales’ commitment to maintaining high environmental standards:
"Wales is home to some of the most scenic bathing waters in Europe. By modernizing how we manage them, we can ensure they remain safe and accessible for generations to come."

Key Updates in the Regulations

• Site Evaluation Improvements: New applications for designated bathing waters will now undergo additional assessments, considering factors like feasibility for improvement, public safety, and environmental impact.

• Flexible Monitoring Periods: The fixed bathing season (previously running from May to September) will be removed, allowing water quality to be monitored in alignment with actual usage patterns.

• Protection of Existing Bathing Sites: The previous rule that automatically removed bathing water status from sites rated ‘poor’ for five consecutive years will be replaced. Instead, underperforming sites will be individually reviewed to determine appropriate action.

Following a public consultation, there was widespread support from local communities, environmental organizations, farmers, businesses, and local authorities for updating these regulations. The government aims for these reforms to strengthen protections while ensuring that more people can safely enjoy the country’s waterways.