Rea's Wood in Lough Neagh is the only site to fail the minimum standard in this year’s bathing water classifications, according to DAERA Minister Andrew Muir.

The site has been affected by blue-green algae for the third consecutive season, with an official "advice against bathing" in place since July.

The 2025 results, announced by Minister Muir, cover 33 designated bathing sites following an expansion of the programme in May that added seven new locations. Of these, 24 achieved an 'Excellent' rating, five were classified as 'Good', and three were deemed 'Sufficient'. Minister Muir commented: "I am glad to see many sites meeting the excellent standard but acknowledge there is still a lot more to do to improve water quality and achieve consistency and excellent performance across all sites. We have all seen the devastating scenes at Lough Neagh. I am therefore disappointed but sadly not surprised that Rea's Wood in Lough Neagh failed to meet the minimum standards. The site was plagued with blue green algae for the third season and unfortunately there has been 'advice against bathing' at the site since July."

Highlighting the broader impact of blue-green algae, the Minister added: "It is really concerning that the blue green algae in Lough Neagh has on occasions spread to our North Coast during the last three seasons. As recently as last week at Portstewart, my officials have had to issue 'advice against bathing'. I am glad to be able to announce that we have been able to lift the 'advice against bathing' at both Portstewart and Rea's Wood. I want to thank our Bathing Water Operator partners who have worked with us in getting the messages out to the public quickly and consistently throughout the season."