Defra acts to modernise the bathing water regime

(by Karma Loveday)

Defra and the Welsh Government have laid a Statutory Instrument before Parliament to amend the 2013 Bathing Water Regulations, to give effect to the outcome of the 2024 consultation on modernising the bathing water regime.

In a written statement to Parliament, water minister Emma Hardy said there were three core reforms plus some technical amendments: 

• Core Reform 1 removes automatic de-designation when a bathing water site receives a classification of ‘poor’ for five consecutive years. Ministers will now consider the evidence and make tailored decisions.

• Core Reform 2 amends the process to designate a bathing water to include consideration of the feasibility of improving a site’s water quality to at least ‘sufficient’; consideration of any risk to the physical safety of bathers; and consideration of whether a large number of bathers would have a significant impact on environmental protection measures. Hardy said: "This reform will support tailored, site-specific decisions that better protect public health and the environment.” 

• Core Reform 3 amends the fixed date bathing season. While a general season (15 May to 30 September) will remain in place, flexible, locally appropriate dates (including monitoring periods) will be able to be determined to reflect actual water use.

• The technical amendments include removing outdated sampling requirements, clarifying data standards, and streamlining administrative processes.

The reforms will come into force in stages. Core Reform 1 and Core Reform 3, along with the technical amendments, will come into force on 21 November 2025. Core Reform 2 will come into force on 15 May 2026.

Hardy said: “These reforms mark a significant milestone in our commitment to protecting public health, enhancing environmental quality, and empowering communities. By modernising the Bathing Water Regulations 2013, we are ensuring that our approach remains fit for purpose in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.”