In 2024, a record number of England's swimming spots failed water quality standards, with only 64.2% rated as "excellent."

In 2024, one in twelve of England's official swimming spots failed to meet water quality standards, with 37 out of 450 sites rated as poor. The number of failing sites reached a record high, with two-thirds of newly designated spots failing. While 91.8% of sites met minimum standards, only 64.2% were rated as "excellent." Coastal waters fared better than inland waters, with 95% of coastal sites meeting standards compared to just 53% of rivers. Campaigners call for a revamp of the monitoring system, citing flaws like seasonal testing limitations and inadequate sample coverage.

November 26, 2024
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