Water Quality at English Bathing Sites Hits Record Low
New data reveals nearly 1 in 12 designated swimming spots fail to meet basic standards, highlighting severe pollution in rivers and lakes.
- The Environment Agency's 2024 assessment found 8.2% of English bathing waters rated 'poor,' the highest proportion since 2015.
- Rivers and inland waters fared worse, with only 53% meeting minimum water quality standards, compared to 95% of coastal sites.
- Two-thirds of the 27 newly designated bathing sites in 2024 failed water quality tests, emphasizing pollution challenges in rivers and estuaries.
- Campaigners and officials are calling for reforms, including year-round testing, broader pollutant monitoring, and stricter regulations on water companies.
- Government efforts to address public outrage include special measures for water companies and consultations on overhauling the monitoring system.
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