Bathing Water Status is a legal designation given by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to specific stretches of water where a large number of people swim or paddle during the bathing season (15 May–30 September).

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Once designated, the Environment Agency must regularly test the water for bacteria (like E. coli and intestinal enterococci) to assess potential health risks to bathers.

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Results are published online and used to classify water quality (Excellent, Good, Sufficient, or Poor), helping the public make informed choices and holding water companies accountable for pollution.