The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has launched a public consultation on proposals to update monitoring and management of Northern Ireland's bathing waters.

The review examines how bathing sites are identified, monitored and managed under existing policy and legislation. Northern Ireland currently has 33 designated bathing waters, with monitoring conducted weekly from 1 June to 15 September each year.

Results are categorised as excellent, good, satisfactory, or subject to temporary advice against bathing, and published on the NI Bathing Water Quality Dashboard.

The consultation addresses changes in recreational use, including year-round and outdoor swimming, and considers updated health guidance. It draws on evidence, stakeholder input, and the Office for Environmental Protection's 2024 report on Bathing Water Regulations.

Proposals under review include potential adjustments to the bathing season and site classification processes.

Minister Muir stated that the review supports commitments in the Environmental Improvement Programme and the third cycle River Basin Management Plan.

The consultation runs for 12 weeks from 29 May 2026 until 5pm on 21 August 2026. Documents and response forms are available online.