Government Proposes 13 New Official Bathing Sites Across England
The Government has unveiled plans to designate 13 new official bathing sites across England, including the first-ever such spot on the River Thames in London and the iconic filming location for the TV drama Broadchurch. This initiative aims to enhance water quality monitoring and provide safer recreational opportunities for communities.
Transforming Water Quality and Community Access
Designation as an official bathing site means these locations will undergo regular water quality testing, offering swimmers, paddlers, and water sports enthusiasts clearer insights into the safety of the water. Officials highlight that the proposed Thames site marks a significant turnaround from the 1950s, when the river was declared biologically dead due to severe pollution. Communities and campaigners hope this move will increase pressure to clean up local rivers and coasts, fostering environmental stewardship.
Water Minister Emma Hardy emphasized the importance of these sites, stating: "Rivers and beaches are at the heart of so many communities, where people come together, families make memories and swimmers of all ages feel the benefits of being outdoors safely." She added that the plans support local ambition and pride in cherished places, complementing broader reforms to cut water pollution and protect waterways.
Expanded Monitoring and Recent Performance
The Government has reformed the bathing water system to include more flexible monitoring dates, reflecting actual usage patterns, and expanded the legal definition of "bather" to encompass participants in water sports like paddleboarding and surfing. In 2025, 87% of designated sites were rated excellent or good, with 93% meeting at least minimum standards. However, 7%—32 sites—failed to achieve the required water quality levels, underscoring the need for ongoing improvements.
List of Proposed Bathing Sites
The 13 proposed sites, now open for public consultation, include:
- Little Shore, Amble, Northumberland: A sandy crescent between the River Coquet and the North Sea, popular with locals.
- Newton and Noss Creeks, Devon: A narrow tidal inlet in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Canvey Island Foreshore, Essex: A family-friendly sandy beach.
- Sandgate Granville Parade Beach, Kent: A shingle beach used by swimmers and kayakers.
- Queen Elizabeth Gardens Salisbury, Wiltshire: A green space with the River Avon, opened in the 1960s to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's coronation.
- East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, Dorset: Filming location for the ITV drama Broadchurch.
- Pangbourne Meadow, Berkshire: A meadow and river area that inspired The Wind In The Willows.
- River Fowey in Lostwithiel, Cornwall: A tidal river flowing through the town centre.
- River Swale in Richmond, North Yorkshire: Features dramatic waterfalls over limestone steps.
- Falcon Meadow, Bungay, Suffolk: A riverside community space on the River Waveney.
- River Thames at Ham and Kingston, Greater London: Potential first river bathing site on the Thames in London.
- New Brighton Beach (East), Merseyside: A sandy seaside resort at the Mersey Estuary mouth.
- River Dee at Sandy Lane, Chester, Cheshire: A popular spot for families and water sports.
If approved, these additions will bring England's total official bathing sites to 464, encompassing beaches, coastal stretches, rivers, and lakes. The consultation period allows for public input to ensure these designations align with community needs and environmental goals.
