River Swale Swim Status Sparks Safety Fears

A 50m stretch of the River Swale at Richmond Falls is being considered for official bathing site status, a move sought by the campaign group Save Our Swale. This proposal has ignited debate, with some residents voicing significant safety concerns. Fears are amplified by the tragic drowning of a 12-year-old boy in the river last summer.

Opponents highlight the river's dangerous undercurrents, describing a risk of being trapped by swirling water. They are calling for government funding for a volunteer river warden safety team before bathing status is granted. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs has opened a consultation on the bathing site proposal.

If designated, the Environment Agency will monitor bacteria levels from May to September and publish findings. This status also imposes stricter environmental standards, affecting permits for sewage discharge. Save Our Swale emphasized that this would necessitate an end to sewage overflows, particularly during bad weather.

Yorkshire Water stated it has already reduced discharges into the Swale as part of a substantial investment. Local businesses hope the bathing status could boost tourism, providing a much-needed attraction. However, concerns remain, with one resident noting that while other safe rivers may exist, they are not clean, and highlighting instances of children jumping from the falls.