In a surprising move, the government has put a hold on all applications for bathing water status in waterways, delaying the cleanup of rivers and coastal waters for at least two years. River campaigners are concerned that this halt on new applications is a tactic to avoid the significant costs that water companies would face in addressing poor water quality in new bathing areas.
The block comes at a time when 12 rivers were recently granted bathing water status, with testing set to begin this season. Many environmental groups see the designation of bathing water status as a critical step in cleaning up rivers and pressuring water companies to invest in reducing pollution.
The decision has left community groups like the Teddington Bluetits outdoor swimming group frustrated, as they were prepared to apply for bathing water status this year. Speaking out against the pause, Tessa Wardley from the Rivers Trust urged the government to reconsider, pointing out the risks posed to river users due to the delay in addressing water quality issues.
With no comment from Defra on the matter, the future of water quality improvement efforts in England remains uncertain.