This week, the government announced plans to designate the largest ever number of new bathing water sites to improve water quality across the country.
Subject to a two-week consultation, the Environment Agency will create 27 new designated swimming spots across England. If designated, sites will receive regular water monitoring from the Environment Agency, who will investigate pollution sources and identify steps to be taken in response, which could include actions by water companies, farmers and others.
This consultation will build on recent improvements the government has delivered to the water environment, including a ban on bonuses for water company executives whose firms have committed serious criminal breaches (subject to Ofwat consultation) and quadrupling the Environment Agency's regulatory capacity.
Water Minister Robbie Moore said:
Many people enjoy spending time in our rivers, lakes, and coastal beaches, and I am very aware of the value they bring in terms of social, health and wellbeing benefits.
I want to continue to improve the quality of our bathing waters, which is why we are taking action across the board to drive up standards and hold water companies to account.
I encourage all local communities and organisations with an interest to take part in this consultation and have their say.