THE LAW in England and Wales is to be amended to grant couples more choice over where they can marry “while ensuring the dignity and integrity of marriage is protected”, the Ministry of Justice said on Thursday.

Believed to be the biggest overhaul of marriage law since the 19th century, the reforms will allow couples to marry in a wider range of locations, including beaches and castles, provided venues “meet strict standards of being appropriate and dignified”.

The reforms will allow officiants greater autonomy over weddings, shifting regulation away from buildings.

The Ministry of Justice said that the changes will “reflect modern Britain” since, for the first time, non-religious groups such as Humanists will be permitted to conduct legally binding ceremonies.

It will also be “more straightforward” for couples to choose to have a legally binding religious ceremony, such as a Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu wedding.

The Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones, said: “Our wedding laws should match our country’s needs. These vital reforms will mean couples from all walks of life can celebrate their commitment without outdated restrictions getting in the way.”

It is anticipated that the changes might boost the economy: the Ministry of Justice estimates that the reforms could open up 12,000 jobs, support 1800 more businesses, and add £535 million to the economy over the next ten years.

The Minister for Family Law, Baroness Levitt KC, said: “Our reforms will protect the solemnity and dignity of marriage while providing more choice for couples and unlocking untapped opportunities for the economy.

“Marriage is one of our country’s most celebrated traditions and our plans will allow couples to have the wedding day of their dreams.”

The Government will undertake a consultation early next year and the legislation to reform marriage law will be introduced “when parliamentary time allows”, the Ministry of Justice said.