UK Government Unveils 13 New Proposed Designated Swimming Sites Across England
The Government has announced proposals for thirteen new designated bathing water sites across England, marking a significant expansion of official swimming locations. This initiative includes a historic first for the River Thames in London, alongside picturesque spots from Yorkshire to Cornwall.
Historic Transformation for the Thames
The proposed Thames site at Ham and Kingston in Greater London represents a monumental shift in the river's environmental health. Officials have described this as a "vast transformation" in water quality, highlighting the Thames's remarkable recovery from being declared "biologically dead" in the 1950s due to severe pollution. If designated, this would become London's first official river bathing site on the Thames, symbolising decades of cleanup efforts.
Enhanced Monitoring and Expanded Definitions
Designation as a bathing site brings crucial benefits. These locations will be subject to regular, rigorous water quality testing, providing swimmers, paddlers, and water sports enthusiasts with clear, reliable information about the safety of the water. The Government has also reformed the bathing water system to introduce more flexible monitoring dates that reflect actual usage patterns. Furthermore, the legal definition of "bather" has been expanded to include participants in activities like paddle boarding and surfing.
This move is expected to increase pressure on authorities and water companies to intensify cleanup efforts for local rivers and coasts, empowering communities and campaigners who have long advocated for cleaner waterways.
Diverse and Scenic Proposed Locations
The thirteen proposed sites, now open for public consultation, showcase a diverse range of England's natural beauty:
- Little Shore, Amble, Northumberland: A sandy crescent between the River Coquet and the North Sea, popular with local residents.
- Newton and Noss Creeks, Devon: A narrow tidal inlet within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Canvey Island Foreshore, Essex: A family-friendly sandy beach enjoyed by many.
- Sandgate Granville Parade Beach, Kent: A shingle beach frequented by swimmers and kayakers.
- Queen Elizabeth Gardens Salisbury, Wiltshire: Where the River Avon flows through a green space commemorating Queen Elizabeth II's coronation.
- East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, Dorset: The famous filming location for the ITV drama Broadchurch.
- Pangbourne Meadow, Berkshire: A meadow and river area that inspired the classic tale The Wind In The Willows.
- River Fowey in Lostwithiel, Cornwall: A tidal river flowing through the heart of the town.
- River Swale in Richmond, North Yorkshire: Features dramatic waterfalls cascading over limestone steps.
- Falcon Meadow, Bungay, Suffolk: A community riverside space on the River Waveney.
- River Thames at Ham and Kingston, Greater London: The potential first river bathing site on the Thames in the capital.
- New Brighton Beach (East), Merseyside: A sandy seaside resort at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary.
- River Dee at Sandy Lane, Chester, Cheshire: A popular spot for families and various water sports.
Context and Government Commitment
These new proposals would increase the total number of England's official bathing sites to 464, encompassing beaches, coastal stretches, rivers, and lakes. The announcement builds on a positive trend; in 2025, 87% of designated bathing sites were rated excellent or good, with 93% meeting at least the minimum standard. However, 7%—amounting to 32 sites—still failed to meet minimum water quality standards, underscoring the ongoing need for improvement.
Water Minister Emma Hardy emphasised the government's commitment: "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. Our plans to designate new bathing water sites show how we are backing local ambition and recognising the pride in places that matter most to people. This comes alongside this Government's generational reform of the water system that will cut water pollution and clean up our rivers, lakes, and seas for good."
This initiative represents a significant step in promoting outdoor recreation, enhancing environmental accountability, and celebrating the nation's cherished waterways.
