Îʶ¦ÓéÀÖ

Wales is home to some of the most stunning and ecologically rich coastlines in Europe. Our beaches and inland bathing waters are not only vital natural assets but also play an important role in supporting local communities, public health and wellbeing, and our thriving tourism sector. Each year thousands of people enjoy swimming, paddling, and connecting with nature at designated bathing sites across the country—highlighting the need to safeguard and enhance these waters for current and future generations.

As we continue to deliver on our environmental ambitions and commitments under the Well-being of Future Generations Act, I am proud to reflect on the positive progress made in improving the quality of bathing waters in Wales. This progress has been made possible through strong collaboration across public bodies, the water industry, environmental regulators, and communities. We recognise there is more to do. We are committed to a proactive, transparent, and evidence-based approach to ensure all our bathing waters are clean, safe, and resilient in the face of climate and ecological challenges.

This year we ran a public consultation seeking views on two proposed new sites for bathing water designation. It was particularly welcome to see both proposals focused on inland locations; Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs in Cardiff, and the Swing Bridge in Llandeilo, reflecting our Programme for Government commitment to increase the number of designated inland bathing waters and strengthen water quality monitoring across Wales during this Senedd term.

Following consideration of the consultation responses and stakeholder views, I am pleased to announce that Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs will be added to Wales’ list of designated bathing waters for the 2025 season. This brings the total number of designated bathing waters in Wales to 112 and marks our third inland site - a significant step forward in our ambition to better reflect how people interact with water across Wales.

For the Swing Bridge application in Llandeilo, further consideration is required. Concerns were raised by stakeholders and the public about whether the application accurately reflected the number of bathers using the site. As the core criterion for Îʶ¦ÓéÀÖ Ministers to consider in the regulations is whether there is an expectation of a large number of bathers, these concerns are material to my decision as to whether to designate the site. Taking into account the evidence submitted by the applicant, in conjunction with the consultation responses, I cannot conclude that the regulatory test has been met. I have therefore decided to place this application under review until 31 October, allowing time for further evidence to be provided by the applicant and relevant stakeholders. I hope this will provide an opportunity to resolve outstanding issues.

My responsibility is to ensure decisions are underpinned by robust, transparent evidence that accurately reflects real usage patterns. It is vital that Îʶ¦ÓéÀÖmaintains a neutral and objective role in assessing applications, ensuring that all submissions are treated fairly, consistently, and in line with the legislative framework.

As part of our longer-term ambition to modernise the regulatory framework, our bathing water programme must continue to evolve in line with changing public behaviours and expectations. That is why we also consulted this year on areas of the application process where greater clarity was needed to help the public make more informed decisions. We recognise the importance of clear, accessible guidance for applicants, and the consultation provided valuable insights into how we can improve the transparency and usability of our information and therefore we will publish new guidance ahead of the bathing season. We are particularly pleased that the consultation recognised the need for a more tailored approach between coastal and inland locations. My officials will be releasing revised guidance in due course, something we hope will further support the delivery of our Programme for Government commitment to increase inland designations.

As we look ahead to the start of the 2025 bathing water season on 15 May, I want to thank everyone who continues to support and champion our shared ambition for clean, safe, and accessible waters across Wales. The progress we are making is a collective effort, and I remain encouraged by the commitment and collaboration shown by communities, partners, and stakeholders alike. I wish everyone a safe, enjoyable, and memorable season ahead.