Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

27 New Bathing Water Designations in England and Reforming the Bathing Water Regulations 2013

13 May 2024 · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Proposed by Robbie Moore Con Keighley and Ilkley

Environment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • Robbie Moore is announcing the designation of 27 new bathing waters in England, increasing the total to 451.
  • Defra plans to consult on proposed reforms to the Bathing Water Regulations 2013 for England.
  • The proposed reforms include extending the definition of 'bathers' and allowing multiple monitoring points at each site.

Issue summary

Robbie Moore is announcing the designation of 27 new bathing waters in England, bringing the total to 451, and proposing reforms to the Bathing Water Regulations 2013.

Action requested

Defra plans to consult on proposed reforms for England's Bathing Water Regulations 2013, including extending the definition of 'bathers' and allowing multiple monitoring points at each site. The consultation will open over the summer with a government response later in the year.

Key facts

  • 27 new bathing waters have been designated, bringing the total to 451.
  • Last year, 90% of England's bathing waters were classified as 'good' or 'excellent'.
  • Defra will consult on reforms to Bathing Water Regulations 2013 over summer.
  • Proposed changes include extending the definition of 'bathers' and allowing multiple monitoring points at each site.
  • A £60 billion infrastructure programme is planned to reduce storm overflow usage near designated bathing waters by 2035.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy