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River Thames Bathing Status: Pollution Risk Remains
21 May
Summary
- Pangbourne Meadow's River Thames stretch gained new bathing status.
- Pollution from the upstream River Pang poses a health risk.
- Water quality testing is mandatory from May to September.
A stretch of the River Thames at Pangbourne Meadow has been granted bathing water status, marking it as one of 13 new designated swimming spots in the UK.
However, concerns about water quality persist. Campaigner James Wallace of River Action pointed out that the River Pang, an upstream tributary, is prone to significant pollution. He stressed that recent discharges, particularly sewage, could impact swimmer health.
Wallace advised caution, recommending that swimmers keep their heads above water and avoid swimming with open wounds. He noted that while precautions can minimize risk, a baseline level of pollution is often present.
The Environment Agency is now required to test the water at Pangbourne Meadow between May and September annually. Publicly available results will inform investigations into pollution sources if water quality falls below standards.
This designation follows similar status awarded to a section of the River Thames at Port Meadow, Oxford, in 2022, and Wallingford in 2024.
