Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Deputy First Minister & Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs
Following the consultation on reforms to the Bathing Water Regulations 2013, I am pleased to publish the Welsh Government's response today and reaffirm our commitment to protecting and enhancing the quality of our bathing waters.
We sincerely thank everyone who contributed their views, insights, and expertise. The feedback received from members of the public, recreational sector representatives, environmental conservation organisations, landowners, the agricultural industry, businesses, and local authorities has been invaluable in shaping these important reforms. It has played a crucial role in ensuring that our approach is evidence-based and reflective of the needs of communities, businesses, and environmental stakeholders across Wales in modernising bathing water regulations.
Moving forward with a programme of meaningful reforms will modernise the regulatory framework, strengthen protections, and provide greater flexibility to adapt to local needs. By removing automatic de-designation, we will ensure that vital efforts to improve water quality continue where needed, rather than being prematurely halted. Introducing feasibility assessments for water quality improvements will allow us to take a more proactive approach to ensuring safe and sustainable bathing sites. Additionally, moving the bathing season dates from fixed regulations to flexible guidance will enable local adaptation, ensuring our policies align with changing environmental and recreational needs.
Alongside these core reforms, we will implement nine technical amendments designed to modernise practices, simplify regulatory processes, and ensure that the Bathing Water Regulations remain fit for purpose while minimising unnecessary burdens. These technical updates will improve the effectiveness and efficiency of water quality management, reinforcing our commitment to continuous improvement.
The successful implementation of these reforms is a priority for the Welsh Government. We will continue to work in close partnership with Defra, regulatory bodies, local authorities, and key stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and develop clear guidance that reflects the unique and diverse nature of Wales’ bathing waters. The necessary legislative changes will be progressed via a Statutory Instrument, with the amendments expected to come into force in Autumn 2025.
Beyond the immediate reforms, we remain committed to exploring further opportunities for improvement. This consultation and our recent consultation on new bathing water sites for 2025 provided valuable feedback on potential future changes with these insights informing our longer-term vision for water management in Wales.
Wales is home to some of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Europe, and outdoor swimming continues to grow in popularity. It is essential that our approach to bathing water management reflects this increasing enthusiasm while addressing the broader challenges posed by climate change and water sector resilience. These reforms represent an important step forward, but they are part of a wider effort to enhance our water governance, strengthen environmental protections, and ensure the highest standards of water quality for generations to come.
By working collaboratively across governments, regulators, and communities, we can deliver lasting change. Our commitment to protecting and enhancing Wales’ natural resources remains steadfast, and we look forward to continuing this journey together building a future where everyone can enjoy cleaner, safer, and more sustainable bathing waters across Wales.