Improving our bathing waters
Investing in the North West
In the past, the quality of bathing waters in our region has been poor. In 1988, just six of the 29 bathing waters met mandatory bathing water guidelines.
Over the last 30 years we have spent £1.5 billion improving the region’s bathing waters. It has involved engineering on a massive scale, bringing sewage treatment for the first time to Blackpool and Fleetwood and upgrading treatment processes. We’ve also completed major projects to store vast volumes of storm water. By 2021, all of the bathing waters in the North West passed the minimum standards and 93% were classified as Good or Excellent.
Our Investments
Having fantastic bathing waters is no small task
In the past, the quality of bathing waters in our region has been poor. In 1988, just six of the then 29 waters monitored in the region met bathing water guidelines.
However, by 2021, all of the bathing waters in the lovely North West met the necessary standards and nearly all were classified as Good or Excellent. Achieving this has been no small task.
Stop the block!
Helps us protect the environment, find out what you can and can’t put down your drains.
Our bathing waters
Fancy a dip? See our useful map detailing our bathing waters and water quality.
Misconnections
Check your drains are properly connected and you'll be protecting your local rivers and streams