Swimmers, paddlers and recreational users to be consulted in bathing water reforms

A consultation into changes to bathing water rules will look at including all recreational water users for the first time, following new government reforms.

Currently only swimmers are included in the definition of ‘bathers’, but that could change to include other water sports enthusiasts like paddlers and surfers.

A public consultation has been launched in a bid to modernise bathing waters rules, of which there are 550 in England and Wales.

Other bathing water reforms could include removing fixed season dates from regulations and introducing multiple testing points at bathing water sites.

The announcement has been made by Defra ahead of an independent report by the Office of Environmental Protection, due to be published this week.

Recommendations from the OEP report, which members of the Clean Water Sports Alliance contributed to, are set to be considered as part of Defra’s consultation.

Commenting on the release of the report, Philip Brownlie, head of public affairs at Swim England said: “Access to clean, healthy, nature-rich blue spaces is crucial to the health and wellbeing of millions of people around the UK.

‘A positive step forward’

“Bathing water designation is one way to help improve water quality and send out a clear message that our blue spaces are places to be enjoyed but the whole bathing water system could be improved – so this consultation is a positive step forward.

“Swim England and the 10 other national governing bodies of water sports that make up the Clean Water Sports Alliance, welcome the announcement that bathing water rules are to be consulted on and brought up to date with new reforms.

“The consultation will be an important opportunity for the voices of recreational users to be heard. We encourage as many people to feed into the process as possible.”

Water Minister Emma Hardy added: “bathing water sites are the pride of local communities across the country.

“But the current system is not working for all those who use and enjoy our bathing waters, and reform is long overdue.

“That is why this government will give more people the opportunity to experience the benefits of our beautiful waters and connect with nature.”

Bathing waters are monitored by the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales. Annual ratings classify each site as excellent, good, sufficient or poor on the basis of water quality. The public, environmental groups and businesses have all been invited to contribute.

Swim England will be working closely with Clean Water Sports Alliance colleagues to input into the consultation and to provide guidance for its members and community on how to respond.

The government said changes to bathing water rules ‘will prioritise public safety and water quality’ so more people can enjoy our rivers, lakes and seas throughout the seasons.

It is set to be the first big shake up of bathing water reforms since 2013. The consultation will run for six weeks, closing on 23 December 2024, and can be found here.