Debate on bathing water regulations

Bathing waters are designated areas of coastal or inland water that meet specified criteria on number of users and access requirements as set out by the government.[1]

The main legislation that applies to bathing waters is the Bathing Water Regulations (2013). These regulations apply to England and Wales, and set out standards for monitoring water quality in places where large numbers of people are expected to bathe. The regulations include a requirement to provide bathers with information on water quality at each designated bathing water, so that they can make an informed choice on going into the water.[2]

The 2013 regulations update the previous 2008 regulations, which implemented EU law (the Bathing Water Directive).

The bathing water regulations are currently under review. Defra’s webpage on the scheme notes:

The bathing water regulations and application guidance are currently being revised. During this time, Defra is not accepting applications for bathing water designation.

We expect to begin accepting applications again in spring 2025.[1]

The Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) is a public oversight body that protects and improves the environment by holding the government to account.

In November 2024, the OEP submitted its review of the implementation of the Bathing Water Regulations in England (PDF) to Parliament. The OEP undertook this review pursuant to section 29 (2) of the Environment Act 2021, which gives it a responsibility to monitor and report on the implementation of environmental law.

In this review, the OEP found that Defra and the EA are implementing the regulations effectively in terms of compliance with bathing water monitoring, classification and reporting.

This pack contains information on designation, testing and annual classification of bathing water, DEFRA’s current review of the regulations and the OEP review, as well as recent Parliamentary and news items. 

[1]      Defra, Designate a bathing water: guidance on how to apply, 13 May 2024, [accessed February 2025]

[1]      Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), Designate a bathing water: guidance on how to apply, 13 May 2024, [accessed February 2025]

[2]      The Bathing Water Regulations 2013