Water reforms come into law

The new Bathing Water Regulation reforms came into force on 21 November. They are designed to more closely reflect beaches, lakes and rivers.

The old rule that automatically removed a bathing water’s status after five years of ‘Poor’ ratings in a row has been removed. Now, when a site is struggling regulators will look at the issues affecting the water quality and, where possible, work towards finding realistic options for improving it.

Monitoring dates will be more flexible, so that testing can be adapted to suit individual sites and better match when people actually use the water. 

Another change, due to come in in May 2026, will look at new criteria for bathing waters.

Water Minister Emma Hardy said: "Our bathing waters are at the heart of so many communities, and these reforms will help people experience the benefits of our beautiful waters and connect with nature.  

"By ending automatic de-designation and bringing in more flexibility to when waters are monitored, we’re creating a system that reflects how people actually use their local rivers, lakes and beaches. 

"These changes sit alongside our wider action to clean up our waterways so communities across the country can enjoy the places they care about most."

The 2025 bathing water classifications have been published for 449 designated bathing sites in England.

87 per cent meet standards for ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’ classification.

417 bathing waters (93 per cent), were rated ‘Excellent’, ‘Good’ or ‘Sufficient’, representing a slight rise compared to 2024. 297 sites achieved an ‘Excellent’ rating, compared to 289 in 2024. 32 sites were classified as ‘Poor’, a decrease from 37 last year.  

Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said: "Bathing water quality in England has improved significantly over recent decades, and this year’s results show the continued impact of strong regulation, investment and partnership working. 

"But we know there is more to do, and the new bathing water reforms will strengthen the way these much-loved places are managed.  

"The Environment Agency is working closely with Defra to ensure these changes are implemented effectively whilst our teams continue to work with water companies, farmers, councils and local groups to tackle all sources of pollution and support continued progress across sites."