The latest Environment Agency assessment of England’s rivers, lakes and coastal waters is a stark reminder of the scale of the challenge facing our waterways and the urgent need for meaningful reform. 

The review found that only around 14-15% of surface waters achieve good ecological status, while no water body in England met the required standard for chemical pollution. The findings also highlight the ongoing impacts of sewage discharges, agricultural runoff and wider sources of pollution on rivers, lakes and bathing waters across the country.

For the millions of people who sail, swim, paddle, row, surf and enjoy other recreational activities on England’s waterways every year, these figures will come as a significant concern. Clean, safe and healthy water is not a luxury. It is essential for public health, environmental recovery and enabling people to access and enjoy nature with confidence.

The Clean Water Sports Alliance believes the latest results underscore the importance of the Government's Clean Water Bill delivering tangible improvements for water users and the natural environment. While investment commitments and increased regulatory focus are welcome, recreational water users need to see measurable progress in water quality, greater transparency around pollution incidents, and stronger accountability for those responsible for harming rivers, lakes and coastal waters.

Kate Fortnam, RYA Sustainability Manager said: "These figures underline why the Government's Clean Water Bill must deliver meaningful change for the millions of people who rely on England's waterways every year for boating, paddlesports, swimming and other water-based activities.

"We urge ministers, regulators, water companies and all relevant sectors to work together to ensure the legislation results in real-world improvements for the health of our waterways and the communities that depend on them."

The Clean Water Sports Alliance will continue to work with policymakers, regulators and stakeholders to ensure the voices of recreational water users are heard as the Government advances its plans for water sector reform and environmental recovery. 

England's rivers, lakes and coastal waters are among the country's most valuable public assets, and the public rightly expects them to be protected for future generations.

The RYA is a founding member of the CWSA. Read more on our work in this area